Definition of sensiblenext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective sensible contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of sensible are appreciable, palpable, perceptible, ponderable, and tangible. While all these words mean "apprehensible as real or existent," sensible applies to whatever is clearly apprehended through the senses or impresses itself strongly on the mind.

an abrupt, sensible drop in temperature

In what contexts can appreciable take the place of sensible?

The words appreciable and sensible can be used in similar contexts, but appreciable applies to what is distinctly discernible by the senses or definitely measurable.

an appreciable increase in income

When is palpable a more appropriate choice than sensible?

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

the tension in the air was almost palpable

When might perceptible be a better fit than sensible?

The meanings of perceptible and sensible largely overlap; however, 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 could ponderable be used to replace sensible?

Although the words ponderable and sensible have much in common, ponderable suggests having definitely measurable weight or importance.

exerted a ponderable influence on world events

Where would tangible be a reasonable alternative to sensible?

The synonyms tangible and sensible are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 sensible Before the first Test Brook gave an interview to the BBC’s new cricket correspondent Stephan Shemilt and sounded far more mature and sensible. Paul Newman, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026 This might have discouraged a sensible man from deciding to become a publisher. Literary Hub, 21 Aug. 2026 Princess Anne has long been known for her sensible, authentic approach to fashion—and her jewelry and tiaras reflect that same understated sensibility. Amanda Le, InStyle, 15 Aug. 2026 The conversation in Springfield about sensible housing reforms shouldn’t end, but given there’s no time to lose, complementary ideas can help bridge the gap between now and whenever Illinois gets its act together. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensible
Adjective
  • Von Neumann himself helped develop it as a potential remedy for some logical inconsistencies with Hilbert space that troubled him.
    Quanta Magazine, Quanta Magazine, 26 Aug. 2026
  • There is no logical world in which Sanders can be a backup to a rookie quarterback next year in Cleveland.
    Jason Lloyd, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • And there is a reasonable likelihood that two of them will end up playing each other on Arthur Ashe either for history, or for the chance to make it, which will lead to unforeseen levels of patriotic tension.
    Ava Wallace, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026
  • City officials say this boosts transparency, sets reasonable expectations and may deter people from repeatedly issuing the same complaint.
    Point Loma-Ob Monthly, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Haaland has become one of the most easily distinguishable sport stars in recent years because of his long hair.
    ABC News, ABC News, 23 Aug. 2026
  • But, the vehicles that will officially operate in Denver are even more distinguishable.
    Chierstin Roth, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • However, Kaczmarek says the county board has been well aware of the funding gap since last year, when the board did not fully fund her budget request.
    Alicia Fabbre, Chicago Tribune, 23 Aug. 2026
  • There’s also a Transparency Mode for situations where users need to be aware of their surroundings, such as travel announcements.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • None are credible challengers; Matt Conroy is the more reasoned and moderate of the three.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026
  • This is a time for cool, calm and reasoned debate, and for legislators to think through the consequences of legislation put forth.
    Bobby Zirkin, Baltimore Sun, 15 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Every one of those was a rational response to the incentive they were handed.
    Jon Markman, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Sprague said the level of planning Clancy did on the night of the killings implicated her as being in a state of rational thought.
    Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 27 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Her charm and warmth, her audible smile, all soften the impact of her words.
    Paul Grein, Billboard, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Both models are reported to be extremely quiet – less audible than a whisper, according to the makers.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 25 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The usual crowd here, though, is the design-conscious traveler, along with couples looking for more character than the usual glass-tower Tokyo hotel.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026
  • As surgeons worked behind her ear, Peasley listened to the music and remained conscious throughout the procedure.
    Marlee Ginter, CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sensible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensible. Accessed 30 Aug. 2026.

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