indistinguishable
UK[ˌɪndɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃəbl]US[ˌɪndɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃəbl]
adj
Not able to be identified as different or distinct.
adj
So similar as to be impossible to tell apart.
Morpheme Breakdown
in
distinguish
able
in
not
distinguish
to tell apart
able
capable of
Etymology
The word "indistinguishable" is a layered construction built upon the Latin verb distinguere, meaning "to separate by pricking" or "to mark off." The prefix in- negates this core action, creating a sense of "not able to be separated or marked as different." The suffix -able, also of Latin origin, then attaches to the verb "distinguish," transforming it into an adjective that describes the inherent quality or capability of the subject. Thus, the literal morphemic logic flows from "capable of being told apart" to its negation, resulting in the modern abstract meaning of being so alike that differentiation is impossible.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + distinguish (to tell apart) + able (capable of)
- in: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "not" or "without".
- distinguish: From Latin distinguere (to separate, mark off), functioning as the core verb root.
- able: From Latin -abilis, a suffix forming adjectives meaning "capable of, fit for, or worthy of".
Examples
The counterfeit bill was virtually indistinguishable from the real one.
The twins' voices were indistinguishable over the phone.
At a distance, the two species of bird are indistinguishable.