Definition of perceptiblenext

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 Here, the curve of SO(2) is barely perceptible. Leila Sloman, Quanta Magazine, 3 Dec. 2025 His breathing was barely perceptible. Helen Molesworth, Artforum, 1 Dec. 2025 The connection was perceptible in 1859 because previous discoveries of the Sun’s variable influence on climate had fostered the development of solar science. Literary Hub, 27 Oct. 2025 These initiatives truly made culture perceptible and traditions more vibrant. Footwear News, 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perceptible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perceptible
Adjective
  • In the city’s Financial District, home to Canada’s major banks, locals are easily distinguishable from tourists and visitors by the conspicuous absence of winter paraphernalia.
    Vivian Song, CNN Money, 17 Feb. 2026
  • Two executive chefs ago, Georgie had a distinguishable French bent under the leadership of RJ Yoakum, who previously spent years working for Thomas Keller at The French Laundry.
    Claire Ballor Staff Reporter, Dallas Morning News, 11 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • If the sky becomes menacing and thunder becomes audible, seek out a safe place to seek shelter.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 16 Feb. 2026
  • The Olympic curling committee issued a warning after a heated fight filled with cheating allegations and audible curse words overshadowed a feisty match between Sweden and Canada.
    CBS News, CBS News, 14 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Over time, that constant effort can lead to noticeable eyestrain, headaches or fatigue –particularly after reading, computer work or other close-up tasks.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 17 Feb. 2026
  • Kaufman had last seen Weir in 2011, but the change was noticeable.
    David Browne, Rolling Stone, 17 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • There was a discernible shift away from outlandish theatrics toward clothes that feel purposeful and directional — modern classics rather than transient one-offs.
    Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 17 Feb. 2026
  • Surprisingly, these conflicts are not about politics — feuding parties’ voting preferences are only occasionally discernible, and never at the heart of their disputes.
    Tessa Stuart, Rolling Stone, 17 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The bill would also allow any detectable amount of fentanyl in an overdose death to be used as evidence in court that a person died as a result of the drug.
    Ari Fife, The Frontier, 17 Feb. 2026
  • The company said though there currently is no detectable PFAS in the drinking water, the facility will continually monitor and remove PFAS if detected.
    Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 17 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • There was an appreciable difference in the flavor.
    Emily Elias, Bon Appetit Magazine, 18 Feb. 2026
  • In fact, for the first nearly 2 billion years of Earth’s history, there was no appreciable oxygen in the planet’s atmosphere at all.
    Big Think, Big Think, 17 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Perceptible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perceptible. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

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