What does derivably mean?
Derivably is a formal adverb meaning in a way that can be derived, or with reference to a conclusion whose validity follows from stated premises or rules. It normally modifies verbs such as follows, entails, or establishes, but its use is uncommon, and “can be derived” is usually clearer in everyday prose. In mathematical and logical contexts, the word can emphasize that a result is reached by a legitimate derivation rather than asserted independently. Its meaning is therefore close to “by derivation,” though that phrase is not a direct synonym in every syntactic use. Derivably belongs to a family based on derive, including derivable, derivation, and derivative. The word is chiefly notable as an exact adverbial counterpart to derivable: derivable describes what may be derived, while derivably describes the manner or basis of derivation. Its rarity makes it more useful in careful exposition than in conversation.
adverbIn a way that can be derived from stated premises, evidence, or rules.
- In a manner or on a basis that permits derivation from premises, evidence, or rules.
"The conclusion is derivably entailed by the stated premises."
"The conclusion is derivably entailed by the stated premises."
"The proposal is derivably compatible with the existing policy, although its practical effects would be disputed."
Derivably puts the spotlight on logic: a conclusion matters not only when it is true, but when its truth can be traced to what came before.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of derivably
Derivably was formed in English by adding the adverbial suffix -ly to derivable. Derivable comes from derive, borrowed from Old French deriver and ultimately from Latin derivare, formed from de- (“away”) and rivus (“stream”). The same root produced English words such as derivation and derivative, while river is also related through Latin rivus.
Related word forms
How derivably is actually used
This is a rare, formal word, encountered chiefly in mathematical, logical, and analytical writing. In ordinary prose, the more natural wording is usually “can be derived” or “by derivation.”
Easily confused with derivably
Derivable is an adjective describing something capable of being derived, whereas derivably is an adverb describing the manner or basis of derivation.