Definition of sensiblenext
1
2
3
4

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 All that is needed is some sensible leadership of the sort being put on display in New York City. Steve Zeidman, New York Daily News, 2 Apr. 2026 Scientifically speaking, the most sensible thing is to conduct further research to investigate the extent to which a factor such as gender influences efficacy and whether there may be other influencing factors. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 31 Mar. 2026 While this is a sensible and necessary business decision, a small number of production roles will be eliminated. Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 30 Mar. 2026 Rather than do the sensible thing, which would be to sit him for the rest of the third quarter if not much of the fourth, too, Wizards coach Brian Keefe elected to leave him out there against the Warriors. Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 28 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sensible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sensible
Adjective
  • In the absence of a money tree, the only logical response to a budget deficit is to make adjustments on the expense side.
    Harvey Levine, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Apr. 2026
  • An injury settlement feels like the most logical path at this point.
    Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 15 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The union also wants to ensure that workers have a reasonable amount of overtime, mandatory overtime and on-call hours, Beck said.
    Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2026
  • Its reasonable prices combined with the speedy, mobile-friendly claims process make this brand an excellent option for many travelers.
    Liz Knueven,Ryley Amond, CNBC, 11 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The clash with residents is especially noticeable in Mallorca, where thousands took to the streets in June 2025 to protest the growth of tourism on the island, as Fox News Digital reported at the time.
    Jessica Mekles, FOXNews.com, 14 Apr. 2026
  • Her omissions are noticeable as well.
    Madeline Leung Coleman, Vulture, 14 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Be aware that certain towns and counties may implement burn bans due to the tinder-dry and hot weather conditions.
    Steven Sosna, CBS News, 16 Apr. 2026
  • The writer may find that the instructor is also aware of the counting and doesn’t see it as an impediment to a productive group workout.
    R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 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
  • None of this has to be fully rational.
    Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 17 Apr. 2026
  • Does any of this make any sense in a rational world?
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 17 Apr. 2026
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 track announcer said that James was conscious and speaking with first responders.
    Jan Wagner, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Apr. 2026
  • Boy landed on patch of mulch Worcester police said officers arrived within a minute and found the boy conscious, alert and breathing.
    Aaron Parseghian, CBS News, 17 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sensible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sensible. Accessed 20 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on sensible

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster