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 The safest and most sensible answer today is that AI is not ready to be independently licensed like a physician. Humayun Chaudhry, STAT, 3 Aug. 2026 Most sensible observers will recognise that his level of influence sits somewhere in the middle. Gregg Evans, New York Times, 31 July 2026 By Season 6, however, Schroeder had evolved into the most sensible person on the Bravo hit, and her love affair with Beau Clark won over the audience’s hearts. Marlow Stern, Variety, 30 July 2026 In the meantime, the less polished but battle-hardened Ethereum will emerge yet again as the more sensible software layer to power the next era of financial innovation. Jeff John Roberts, Fortune, 27 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensible
Adjective
  • The classical compute needed to interpret the error data—called the syndrome—of a logical qubit is substantial.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 5 Aug. 2026
  • Then Saturday, a deluge of rain in the afternoon forced Mayor James Dodge to make the logical but still tough, call to cancel the second day of 23rd running of the Taste of Orland Park.
    Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 3 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Therefore, Tunick remains presumed innocent unless prosecutors prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 9 Aug. 2026
  • Since the State could not disprove the justification defense beyond a reasonable doubt, the evidence resulted in the decision that no criminal charges would be filed against the fast-food employees.
    Desiree Anello, PEOPLE, 9 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The next hurdle for lifestyle influencers will be to make content that’s both useful and, crucially, distinguishable from what AI can do.
    Rebecca Jennings, Vulture, 30 July 2026
  • Based on analyzing samples taken from hundreds of different mole rats, the team learned members of each colony carried a distinguishable chemical signature.
    Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 21 July 2026
Adjective
  • On the day of the fire, Farinacci was aware Spokane County was under a red flag warning and conditions were ideal to start a fire, according to Drapeau.
    Cindy Von Quednow, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026
  • Asked about any projects with varying zones in a low-density residential area, Smith said city community development staff were not aware of another similar example.
    Rose Evans August 9, Idaho Statesman, 9 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
  • Her mental health afterward Two forensic psychiatrists testified Monday that Clancy appeared clear-headed and rational in the days after the killings.
    Andi Babineau, CNN Money, 8 Aug. 2026
  • Employers must move beyond resilience training, creating transparent, equitable workplaces where effort is rewarded and mistakes are tolerated, ensuring ambition remains a rational choice for diverse talent.
    Nancy Doyle, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • JumpSmart also includes a compass, thermometer, reflector strip, and emergency audible alarm that is perfect for hiking, camping, and off-roading.
    ABC News, ABC News, 8 Aug. 2026
  • In a room of hundreds of people, there was hardly an audible reaction to an announcement that the AP had called the race.
    Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 5 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Celsius markets its energy drinks to athletes and health-conscious consumers and has exploded in popularity in recent years.
    Robert Frank, CNBC, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Alison Brie and Dave Franco Celebrity power couple Alison Brie and Dave Franco, who have been together since 2012 and married since 2017, made a conscious decision not to have children.
    Sezin Devi Koehler, Entertainment Weekly, 6 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sensible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensible. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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