What does rateable mean?
Rateable means capable of being rated, assessed, or given a value. It is used when something has a value that can be determined, as in “the rateable value of a building,” and, especially in British English, when something is liable to taxation or a local rate. The word is also spelled “ratable,” with that spelling being more usual in North America. Although the two spellings have essentially identical meanings, “rateable” is especially associated with British administrative and legal contexts. In general use, it is formal and somewhat less common than expressions such as “assessed” or “taxable,” but it is useful when referring to the formal process of assigning a value or determining tax liability.
Able to be rated, assessed, or assigned a value.
"The scheme provides rateable amounts for each category of equipment."
Common in formal and administrative contexts.
Liable to taxation or subject to a rate.
"Commercial premises may be rateable for local tax purposes."
Especially common in British English, particularly in legal and tax contexts.
In British English, “rateable” has a civic meaning: something rateable is something the government can put a tax or rate on.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rateable come from?
The word was formed in the 19th century from the noun “rate” and the suffix “-able,” meaning “capable of being.” “Rate” itself comes through Old French from Latin “rata,” meaning “a fixed amount or assessed charge.” Related words in English include “rating,” “rater,” and the variant “ratable,” while “ratio,” “ration,” and “ratify” also share the Latin root.
Related word forms
How rateable is actually used
Most common in British English. The spelling “ratable” is standard in North American English. The taxation sense is especially associated with local taxes, rates, and the historical rating of property.
Easily confused with rateable
Both words have the same meaning, but “rateable” is the more common British spelling, while “ratable” is the more common North American spelling.