Definition of sensiblenext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective sensible contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of sensible are appreciable, palpable, perceptible, ponderable, and tangible. While all these words mean "apprehensible as real or existent," sensible applies to whatever is clearly apprehended through the senses or impresses itself strongly on the mind.

an abrupt, sensible drop in temperature

In what contexts can appreciable take the place of sensible?

The words appreciable and sensible can be used in similar contexts, but appreciable applies to what is distinctly discernible by the senses or definitely measurable.

an appreciable increase in income

When is palpable a more appropriate choice than sensible?

While in some cases nearly identical to sensible, palpable applies either to what has physical substance or to what is obvious and unmistakable.

the tension in the air was almost palpable

When might perceptible be a better fit than sensible?

The meanings of perceptible and sensible largely overlap; however, perceptible applies to what can be discerned by the senses often to a minimal extent.

a perceptible difference in sound to a careful listener

When could ponderable be used to replace sensible?

Although the words ponderable and sensible have much in common, ponderable suggests having definitely measurable weight or importance.

exerted a ponderable influence on world events

Where would tangible be a reasonable alternative to sensible?

The synonyms tangible and sensible are sometimes interchangeable, but tangible suggests what is capable of being handled or grasped both physically and mentally.

no tangible evidence of UFOs

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sensible As is so often the case, the most sensible voices are those somewhere in the middle. Samantha Gloede, Fortune, 19 June 2026 These monsters—its antitheses—constitute that part of our nature that urges us to be sensible and strong, and that inclines us to see the life drive as trivial, weak, sentimental and immoral. Literary Hub, 17 June 2026 These commercial buildings are built too close together, ignoring any sensible fire codes. Joseph Trinidad, Longreads, 16 June 2026 Bold strategies like that don’t always work; the two-stop plan that most teams opted for was the safe, sensible option. Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 15 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensible
Adjective
  • Following the logical evidence feels like Detective 101, but their boss is gunning for an arrest so Gonzales gives in to Baxter’s impulse.
    Erin Qualey, Vulture, 24 June 2026
  • Under this framework, participating engineering teams must successfully demonstrate operational quantum hardware that utilizes a specific range of low-hundreds logical qubits before the 2028 deadline.
    Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • To prove religious discrimination in the workplace, a party needs to prove disparate treatment or that the employer failed to make reasonable accommodations for someone trying to practice their religious beliefs.
    Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 27 June 2026
  • Use earphones for music and movies and keep conversations at a reasonable volume.
    Jill Schildhouse, Southern Living, 27 June 2026
Adjective
  • The new hub will rely on Flowcode, a company that generates customizable QR codes that can be updated in real time and often feature colors and other elements that help make the advertiser using it more distinguishable from similar efforts.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 22 June 2026
  • Three is very distinguishable from four.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 18 June 2026
Adjective
  • The broad genre of pop also gives artists room to experiment, said O’Brien, adding that audiences these days are well aware of the concept of eras and understand artists will go through multiple ones throughout their careers.
    Chelsey Sanchez, CNN Money, 25 June 2026
  • After clearing logjams in the White House and House of Representatives, the legislation drew broad support in an election year where both parties are increasingly aware that voters have said they're fed up with the high cost of living.
    Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • None are credible challengers; Matt Conroy is the more reasoned and moderate of the three.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026
  • This is a time for cool, calm and reasoned debate, and for legislators to think through the consequences of legislation put forth.
    Bobby Zirkin, Baltimore Sun, 15 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Ray advises Anna to let the police handle the situation, which confirms him as the most rational character on the show and thus the only threat that Cady seems to recognize.
    Scott Tobias, Vulture, 26 June 2026
  • Research from the LinkedIn B2B Institute, conducted with Les Binet and Peter Field, found that emotional B2B campaigns deliver roughly seven times the long-term effectiveness of rational ones.
    James Fratzke, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • As soon as one influence is audible, Cold Court throws in a noisy interlude, then a surprisingly poppy section, and then a funk breakdown.
    Hannah Jocelyn, Pitchfork, 22 June 2026
  • If the sky becomes menacing and thunder becomes audible, seek out a safe place to seek shelter.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • Firefighters have declared the blaze knocked down but will stay on scene for flare-ups as demolition begins, while officials promise a health-conscious cleanup that minimizes impacts on surrounding residents.
    Jazmin Alvarado, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026
  • Anderson’s more low-key reveal could be chalked up to such factors as the union was her husband’s second, as well as the ongoing political unrest and cost-conscious consumers.
    Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 26 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sensible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensible. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.

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