What does appreciably mean?
"Appreciably" is an adverb meaning to a noticeable or measurable extent — enough that a difference can be clearly perceived or objectively detected. When something changes appreciably, the change is real and significant rather than trivial: costs may fall appreciably, performance may improve appreciably, or two samples may differ appreciably. The word derives from "appreciate," which originally meant to set a value on something, so calling a difference appreciable is essentially saying it is large enough to register as having substance. In modern usage it appears most often in formal, scientific, technical, and journalistic contexts, typically paired with comparatives such as "faster," "higher," or "lower." Its connotation is one of measured honesty: it affirms that an effect exists without exaggerating its size. This makes it a valuable word for precise communication, sitting between vague claims of improvement and overstated assertions of dramatic change.
adverbTo a noticeable or measurable extent; enough to be clearly perceived or significant. It indicates that a difference, change, or amount is large enough to matter, rather than trivial or negligible.
- To a noticeable or measurable extent; by an amount large enough to be perceived or considered significant.
"The new insulation reduced heating costs appreciably over the winter."
"After the software update, the app loaded appreciably faster."
"Prices rose appreciably during the second half of the year."
Scientists love 'appreciably' because it's the honest middle ground: the effect is real and measurable — but not necessarily huge.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of appreciably
"Appreciably" derives from the verb "appreciate," which entered English from Latin "appretiare" ("to set a price on, appraise"), itself built on "pretium" ("price") — the same root that gives us "precious" and "appraise." The adjective "appreciable," meaning large enough to be valued or noticed, developed in English around the late 18th century, and the adverb "appreciably" followed as its natural derivative. Cognates sharing this Latin root include "appraise" and "depreciate."
Related word forms
How appreciably is actually used
Formal to neutral in register, common in scientific, technical, and journalistic writing where precision about magnitude matters. Often used with comparatives (faster, higher, larger) or with verbs of change. It implies the difference is real and detectable, but does not specify whether it is large in absolute terms.
Easily confused with appreciably
"Appropriately" means in a manner suitable to the circumstances, while "appreciably" means to a noticeable or significant degree.