Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective tangible contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of tangible are appreciable, palpable, perceptible, ponderable, and sensible. While all these words mean "apprehensible as real or existent," tangible suggests what is capable of being handled or grasped both physically and mentally.

no tangible evidence of UFOs

When might appreciable be a better fit than tangible?

The words appreciable and tangible 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 it sensible to use palpable instead of tangible?

The synonyms palpable and tangible are sometimes interchangeable, but palpable applies either to what has physical substance or to what is obvious and unmistakable.

the tension in the air was almost palpable

In what contexts can perceptible take the place of tangible?

Although the words perceptible and tangible have much in common, 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 is ponderable a more appropriate choice than tangible?

The meanings of ponderable and tangible largely overlap; however, ponderable suggests having definitely measurable weight or importance.

exerted a ponderable influence on world events

When could sensible be used to replace tangible?

While in some cases nearly identical to tangible, sensible applies to whatever is clearly apprehended through the senses or impresses itself strongly on the mind.

an abrupt, sensible drop in temperature

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 tangible Affecting real people These legal fights have tangible consequences for millions of Americans. Cassandra Burke Robertson, The Conversation, 27 June 2025 The firms were selected from applicants that stood out for their bold vision and tangible results. Time Staff, Time, 26 June 2025 The proposal to underground the transmission line would force them to shoulder over half a billion dollars in additional costs, with no tangible benefit to reliability, safety, or performance. Barry Lee Cohen, Hartford Courant, 26 June 2025 While the former governor banked on the support of big labor unions boasting high membership rolls, Mamdani’s active efforts to reach millions of New Yorkers in the streets and on social media produced more tangible results. Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 25 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for tangible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tangible
Adjective
  • The physical attributes that helped these women get recruited likely led to their low rates of maternal mortality.
    Ann Foster, JSTOR Daily, 9 July 2025
  • Creating spaces — physical or digital — that evoke deep emotional connection builds loyalty that no marketing funnel can replicate.
    Sudhir Gupta, Rolling Stone, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • The ribbed texture is noticeable, but not too thick, and the contouring on the back and front could not be more flattering.
    Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 6 July 2025
  • The team issued an advisory noting that residents in nearby communities may see a noticeable increase in smoke July 5 coming from the southwest flank of the Oak Ridge Fire.
    Arlyssa D. Becenti, AZCentral.com, 5 July 2025
Adjective
  • This feeling of place and belonging is palpable, even to those who are merely passing through.
    Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 28 June 2025
  • The joy rushing through the canals has been palpable.
    Martina Di Licosa, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tangible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tangible. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tangible

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