Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective perceptible contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of perceptible are appreciable, palpable, ponderable, sensible, and tangible. While all these words mean "apprehensible as real or existent," perceptible applies to what can be discerned by the senses often to a minimal extent.

a perceptible difference in sound to a careful listener

In what contexts can appreciable take the place of perceptible?

The words appreciable and perceptible are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, appreciable applies to what is distinctly discernible by the senses or definitely measurable.

an appreciable increase in income

When can palpable be used instead of perceptible?

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

the tension in the air was almost palpable

When is ponderable a more appropriate choice than perceptible?

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

exerted a ponderable influence on world events

Where would sensible be a reasonable alternative to perceptible?

In some situations, the words sensible and perceptible are roughly equivalent. However, sensible applies to whatever is clearly apprehended through the senses or impresses itself strongly on the mind.

an abrupt, sensible drop in temperature

When might tangible be a better fit than perceptible?

Although the words tangible and perceptible have much in common, 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 perceptible The hum of an air conditioner on the wall is the only perceptible sound inside the witness room, where a curtain covers a large pane-glass window that separates us in the gallery from the death chamber. Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Apr. 2025 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 However, the romantic narrative is punctuated by subtle moments of unease, each barely perceptible on its own but which, taken together, build into something rather more sinister. Stephanie Hirschmiller, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025 Because far-off stars would be static over successive nights, nearer, moving objects would stand out against the backdrop — but, for an object as distant as Pluto, the motion would be barely perceptible. John Loeffler, Space.com, 18 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perceptible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perceptible
Adjective
  • If the sky becomes menacing and thunder becomes audible, seek out a safe place to seek shelter.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 14 May 2025
  • The audible release of the pressurized gas, followed by the burning, blinding, and gasping sensation.
    Benjamin Alva Polley, Rolling Stone, 10 May 2025
Adjective
  • This gap is especially noticeable in close relationships, such as those with family and close friends, where shared understanding is critical to maintaining connection.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025
  • The impact of that indirect heat was particularly noticeable in our onion test.
    Wilder Davies, Bon Appetit Magazine, 17 May 2025
Adjective
  • Given his limited but still discernible responses, Ian seemed like the perfect candidate.
    Sarah Zhang, The Atlantic, 16 May 2025
  • The Trump coin has no discernible value apart from its identification with Trump himself.
    Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • Trump’s tariffs, detentions take a toll on local tourism April 12, 2025 There was an appreciable drop in visitors to the United States from Europe in March, after the Trump administration introduced an aggressive crackdown on immigration.
    Erik Kirschbaum, Los Angeles Times, 17 May 2025
  • The emphasis on outfitting is appreciable, in particular with matching sets such as a fluid-fitting viscose blouse paired with a wide-legged trouser, priced $79 for each piece.
    David Moin, Footwear News, 1 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Perceptible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perceptible. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

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