notable - Master This Word

notable Word Meanings

• worthy of attention or notice
• significant or remarkable
• deserving to be noticed

notable Example Sentences

Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.

• She is a notable artist in our town.
• His speech was notable for its honesty.
• The book has many notable quotes.
• They had a notable success at the game.
• This is a notable event in history.

notable Word Etymology

notable = note + able; Originated from Latin 'notabilis' → Old French 'notable' → English. Imagine a large sign saying 'Notable Event' at a celebration, showcasing something that stands out.

English Brain Route

I set the page on the desk and push it a little, then I watch the ink move across the line. A soft shift in the lamp makes that one detail pop, and I hold my breath as I notice it. I adjust my pace and keep my focus on that spot, letting it guide what I say next. The feeling is simple and human—a small, notable moment that changes how I think about what’s worth mentioning.

Real Context

Notable is an adjective used to describe something worthy of attention or notice, or something significant or remarkable. It can describe a person, achievement, or event that stands out in a notable way. The word suggests recognition and importance; in formal writing you might say a notable achievement, a notable exception, or a notable trend. Its etymology links to Latin notabilis, meaning 'able to be noted,' via Old French notable into English. This lineage ties the sense of notice to the idea of marking something as worthy. In everyday use, people sometimes confuse notable with famous, but not every notable thing is widely known. A simple mental image helps: a large sign reading 'Notable Event' at a celebration.

Usage Reminders

• Notable is used for things worthy of attention, not just famous people.
• It often appears before a noun, as in notable achievement or notable exception.
• Be careful not to equate notable with simply being famous; context matters.
• Its etymology links to note and able via Latin notabilis.
• Use sparingly: reserve notable for genuinely significant or remarkable cases.

Common Misconceptions

• Notable means famous
• Only people can be notable
• Notable always has a positive connotation
• Notable and noteworthy are exactly the same
• You must use notable only in formal writing

Thinking Differences

Notable in English usually marks something worthy of attention rather than simply famous. It sits between important and remarkable, with a formal tone. Learners often mix it up with noteworthy or famous.

Learning Tips

• Link notable with high impact nouns (achievement, exception).
• Compare notable with noteworthy and with famous to see nuance.
• Practice placing it before a noun: notable achievement, notable case.
• Remember the etymology: note + able helps recall the notice idea.
• Use in formal contexts; avoid overusing in casual speech.
• Create mental images of signs like Notable Event to anchor meaning.

5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English

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