ponderable

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective ponderable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of ponderable are appreciable, palpable, perceptible, sensible, and tangible. While all these words mean "apprehensible as real or existent," ponderable suggests having definitely measurable weight or importance.

exerted a ponderable influence on world events

When could appreciable be used to replace ponderable?

In some situations, the words appreciable and ponderable are roughly equivalent. However, appreciable applies to what is distinctly discernible by the senses or definitely measurable.

an appreciable increase in income

Where would palpable be a reasonable alternative to ponderable?

The meanings of palpable and ponderable largely overlap; however, palpable applies either to what has physical substance or to what is obvious and unmistakable.

the tension in the air was almost palpable

When can perceptible be used instead of ponderable?

The synonyms perceptible and ponderable are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 sensible a more appropriate choice than ponderable?

While the synonyms sensible and ponderable are close in meaning, 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 ponderable?

The words tangible and ponderable 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

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ponderable
Adjective
  • The single-minded obsession with Mamdani’s talk of affordability, while convenient for the mayor-elect and a vital part of his appeal, also misses an obvious point.
    Ben Smith, semafor.com, 10 Nov. 2025
  • Could the Cavs tinker just a little more to take advantage of his efficiency and obvious talent, even when everyone else is healthy?
    Joe Vardon, New York Times, 10 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The team settled for adding TE Josh Whyle and defensive lineman Arron Mosby from the practice squad to the active roster, but Green Bay is apparently in on one prominent free-agent defensive back as well.
    Michael Gallagher, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Several prominent business leaders have already voiced cautious optimism, seeing in Mamdani a chance to reset the relationship between City Hall and commerce.
    Sally Susman, Time, 5 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The most conspicuous candidate is Snook’s Marissa Irvine, the mother who shows up on a stranger’s doorstep to pick up her son, Milo (Duke McCloud), on that miserable day.
    Judy Berman, Time, 6 Nov. 2025
  • And consumer cyclicals – airlines up almost 6%, regional banks relaxing higher, even the beleaguered restaurant group up on not-so-great earnings – are trying to get traction after some conspicuous underperformance.
    Michael Santoli, CNBC, 5 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Calf & Pony Hair The sleek, tactile surface of pony hair adds a bold edge to any accessory, creating a striking contrast in bags, hats, and footwear.
    Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 9 Nov. 2025
  • Several of the most striking photographs in the book are of the studio itself, which appears empty except for a pair of high heels reflected in a wall of mirrors or a rumpled military blanket, a favorite backdrop, pinned to a bare wall.
    Vince Aletti, New Yorker, 8 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Similarly, the depth of the pile doesn’t rebound if furniture is moved, which can be noticeable for a period of time.
    Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Just as Mamdani aims to improve the lives of young people more broadly, those working under him could see a noticeable shift in how the workplace is run.
    Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 6 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • But Bode's pointed delivery, and the reaction of the crowd, suggested that the comment carried an evident double meaning in the current political climate.
    Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Nov. 2025
  • This is evident in their signature programs, such as those that recognize excellence among teachers, coaches, and healthcare workers, as well as initiatives that bring the community together to enjoy great local restaurants on the firm’s tab.
    William Jones, USA Today, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Turner spoke with an arresting conviction, locating Canada’s fate in geography, history, and its defining quest to defy manifest destiny and political gravity.
    Dónal Gill, The Dial, 28 Oct. 2025
  • In the case of pro athletes, the skills being developed often manifest around the nature of media today.
    Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 23 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Republicans must credibly promise to rein in irresponsible spending and smartly cut waste so that Americans see tangible relief.
    Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Since its debut, the initiative has been quietly but determinedly building physical bases in Lagos and Kenya, creating tangible spaces where female artists, producers, and engineers can access resources that Tems herself had to fight to find.
    Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 4 Nov. 2025
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Ponderable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ponderable. Accessed 14 Nov. 2025.

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