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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective palpable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of palpable are appreciable, perceptible, ponderable, sensible, and tangible. While all these words mean "apprehensible as real or existent," 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 appreciable take the place of palpable?

The synonyms appreciable and palpable are sometimes interchangeable, 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 perceptible instead of palpable?

While the synonyms perceptible and palpable are close in meaning, 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 can ponderable be used instead of palpable?

In some situations, the words ponderable and palpable are roughly equivalent. However, ponderable suggests having definitely measurable weight or importance.

exerted a ponderable influence on world events

When might sensible be a better fit than palpable?

Although the words sensible and palpable have much in common, sensible applies to whatever is clearly apprehended through the senses or impresses itself strongly on the mind.

an abrupt, sensible drop in temperature

When is tangible a more appropriate choice than palpable?

The words tangible and palpable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 palpable The excitement around Apple’s new iPhone design is palpable. Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025 And that enthusiasm is palpable as guests prepare to enter the Mobile Closet. Tim Grierson, Los Angeles Times, 28 Apr. 2025 Their cultural traditions and deep connection with nature are palpable throughout the region, from traditional reindeer herding practices to Márkanbáiki Sámi open-air museums to their leadership in ethical and sustainable tourism initiatives. Carinne Geil Botta, Travel + Leisure, 27 Apr. 2025 Last week, as we were allowed to enter our buildings to gather our belongings, the emotion in the building was palpable. Catherine Blackwood, Scientific American, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for palpable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for palpable
Adjective
  • While hazing has come under intense scrutiny in recent years, incidents like the one in Syracuse are reminders of how vague the true scope of hazing nationwide remains and the need for more tangible hazing prevention practices, experts and advocates say.
    Alisha Ebrahimji, CNN Money, 3 May 2025
  • Caracol is a tangible celebration of Mexico’s coastline, grilling fresh-off-the-boat seafood over an open flame.
    Kareema Bee, Travel + Leisure, 3 May 2025
Adjective
  • There's no official announcement time during a conclave, but there is one unmistakable signal: white smoke.
    Dan Cody, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 May 2025
  • Indeed, her portraits are unmistakable: characterized by saturated backdrops, tactile surfaces, and a deep reverence for Nigerian studio photography traditions that elevate her sitters to mythic status.
    Lilah Ramzi, Vogue, 7 May 2025
Adjective
  • If the sky becomes menacing and thunder becomes audible, seek out a safe place to seek shelter.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 30 Apr. 2025
  • The artist formerly known as Kanye West has gotten into the live stream game recently, meaning his X rants are now audible and visible on a more consistent basis.
    Armon Sadler, VIBE.com, 30 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • While Steve Austin's presence at WWE WrestleMania 41 was a highlight for many fans, his entrance wasn't without a minor, yet noticeable, hiccup.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 May 2025
  • While all of the men had shaved heads and were wearing cloaks with a mysterious symbol on the back, the group's most noticeable trait was that each and every member had Glasgow smile-type scars carved into their faces.
    Megan McCluskey, Time, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Despite some apparent limitations in the group, there’s a dual purpose to their playing time.
    Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 9 May 2025
  • On their way home to Melbourne, Cave claims their meal at a local pub was interrupted by an apparent interaction with Cage.
    Tyler Jenke, Billboard, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • That route, however, will lead to a perceptible increase in health insurance premiums for workers and families across the board.
    Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025
  • Some economists disagree, arguing that the perceptible price increases that would result from ending the de minimis rule prompted Trump to keep it in place.
    Tobias Burns, The Hill, 10 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • In this new role, Lindsey will lead the strategic design and development of exhibits and physical experiences at the Amazeum and with partner institutions across the region.
    Deb Harvell, Arkansas Online, 11 May 2025
  • Two runs in the sixth came courtesy of a mental error and a physical error by the Rockies.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 May 2025
Adjective
  • Toxic takeover completed a few months before, the Glazer brothers — Joel, Avie and Bryan — were attending their first match at Old Trafford as owners of Manchester United and a new way of thinking was evident.
    Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 11 May 2025
  • Acidity dominants, as with many 2024 Bordeaux wines, but complexity is evident in this light juice with fine flavors of young red fruit.
    Tom Mullen, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Palpable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/palpable. Accessed 15 May. 2025.

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