Corrections Officer Entrance (CJBAT) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a characteristic of something that is 'palpable'?

1. Easy to understand

2. Difficult to perceive

3. Subtle and undetectable

4. Perceptible and clear

The correct answer is: Perceptible and clear

A characteristic of something that is 'palpable' refers to it being perceptible and clear. The term 'palpable' typically describes something that can be felt or perceived, often in a tangible or obvious way. For instance, in a literary context or in descriptions of emotions, a 'palpable' tension would imply that the tension is so strong that it is almost physically detectable. When something is described as palpable, it suggests that it stands out in a way that makes it easily noticeable or comprehensible, whether it refers to physical sensations, emotions, or concepts. This quality distinguishes it from options that suggest difficulty in perception, subtlety, or complexity. In contrast, something that is easy to understand is more aligned with clarity but does not capture the physical essence that ‘palpable’ conveys. Thus, referring to something as palpable emphasizes its tangible and unmistakable presence.