Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈpɜːrviəsnəs/
KK: /ˈpɜrvɪəsnəs/
Definition
The quality of allowing liquids or gases to pass through it.
Example
The perviousness of the soil allows rainwater to seep into the ground.
Conversation

Did you know that the perviousness of the soil affects how well plants grow?

Yeah, I've heard that it can really make a difference in gardening.

Exactly! If the soil is too compact, it won't let water through properly.

Right, and that's why we need to check the perviousness regularly.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
porosity
permeability
accessibility
Antonyms
impermeability
obstruction
inaccessibility
Root Explanation
Perviousness → It is formed from "per-" (meaning through) and "via" (meaning way or road), combined with the suffix "-ness" (indicating a state or quality). The word describes the quality of being able to allow passage through, as in fluids or ideas.
Memory Tip
Think of 'through' ('per-') and 'way' ('via') to remember that 'perviousness' means the quality of allowing things to pass through.
Visually Confused Words
imperviousness
previousness
perilousness
penuriousness
imperiousness
seriousness
nervousness
enviousness