märgatavad

Märgatavad is an Estonian adjective in its plural form that means noticeable or visible. It is used to describe plural nouns and corresponds to the singular form märgatav. For example, märgatavad vead means noticeable mistakes, and märgatavad muutused means noticeable changes. The term conveys that the described items can be observed or easily detected.

Etymology and grammar: The word is formed from the verb märgata (to notice) with the participial suffix -tav, and it takes the plural ending -vad when describing multiple nouns. In use, märgatavad appears before the noun as an attributive adjective, functioning similarly to other Estonian participial adjectives.

Usage and nuance: Märgatavad typically carries a neutral to descriptive tone, often used in analysis, reporting, or factual description to indicate that differences, features, or errors stand out. It is less evaluative than words like märkimisväärne (noteworthy) and may be softened by context. For stronger emphasis on conspicuousness in everyday language, speakers might opt for synonyms such as nähtav (visible) or silmatorkav (eye-catching), depending on the specific nuance.

Examples in common usage include phrases like märgatavad vead (noticeable faults) or märgatavad muutused (noticeable changes). The form is standard in written Estonian and widely understood in everyday speech, especially when contrasting observable characteristics in data, observations, or descriptions.

See also: märgatav (noticeable), märkimisväärne (noteworthy), nähtav (visible), silmatorkav (conspicuous), märgitavus (noticeability).