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 Nervousness is perceptible across multiple countries. Claudia Ciobanu, Arkansas Online, 1 Mar. 2026 This invisible infrastructural condition becomes further perceptible through sound. Anel Rakhimzhanova, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2026 Nervousness is perceptible across multiple countries. Claudia Ciobanu, Chicago Tribune, 28 Feb. 2026 The salt level was perfect for everyone, and many said the corn flavor was perceptible without being overwhelming. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for perceptible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perceptible
Adjective
  • Second, the two sides must be readily distinguishable from each other, usually by applying color or markings to one side, although in rare cases they can be distinguished by shape, with one side being convex and the other being concave.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 3 Apr. 2026
  • For Fall 2026, creative director Anthony Vaccarello showcased a series of single- and double-breasted black suits, distinguishable from one another by the slightest shade.
    Kevin Huynh, InStyle, 12 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The celebratory taunts — clearly audible on ABC’s game broadcast — were aimed at Philadelphia fans, who’d broken into the same chant during their team’s play-in victory over Orlando on Wednesday.
    Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 19 Apr. 2026
  • If the sky becomes menacing and thunder becomes audible, seek out a safe place to seek shelter.
    STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Tips for a great visit Arriving early can make a noticeable difference.
    Taylor Haught, Kansas City Star, 21 Apr. 2026
  • Use the dome light and flashers to make your vehicle more noticeable.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 21 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Unlike most spirits, which can sit unopened at room temperature for years without discernible degradation, wine is a living, breathing, dare-I-say magical thing.
    Emily Saladino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 17 Apr. 2026
  • With no discernible up or down in space, the astronauts strapped into sleeping bags hanging from the walls each night.
    Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 11 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • It is estimated that there are 500,000 detectable earthquakes in the world each year.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 22 Apr. 2026
  • All 20 patients who received the trial treatment no longer had any detectable myeloma cells in their body.
    Angus Chen, STAT, 20 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • And there’s always a hexagonal feature at about 78 degrees north latitude, not seen to vary in any appreciable way, surrounding the system.
    Big Think, Big Think, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Such a mission would, by its very nature, carry an appreciable risk of the loss of American life.
    Niall Stanage, The Hill, 31 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Perceptible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perceptible. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.

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