Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective tangible contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of tangible are appreciable, palpable, perceptible, ponderable, and sensible. While all these words mean "apprehensible as real or existent," tangible suggests what is capable of being handled or grasped both physically and mentally.

no tangible evidence of UFOs

When might appreciable be a better fit than tangible?

The words appreciable and tangible 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 it sensible to use palpable instead of tangible?

The synonyms palpable and tangible are sometimes interchangeable, but palpable applies either to what has physical substance or to what is obvious and unmistakable.

the tension in the air was almost palpable

In what contexts can perceptible take the place of tangible?

Although the words perceptible and tangible have much in common, 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 ponderable a more appropriate choice than tangible?

The meanings of ponderable and tangible largely overlap; however, ponderable suggests having definitely measurable weight or importance.

exerted a ponderable influence on world events

When could sensible be used to replace tangible?

While in some cases nearly identical to tangible, sensible applies to whatever is clearly apprehended through the senses or impresses itself strongly on the mind.

an abrupt, sensible drop in temperature

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 tangible Peace Day has reached billions worldwide through films, educational programs, and viral campaigns, demonstrating that even the most symbolic efforts can drive tangible change. Jeremy Gilley, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Aug. 2025 The pair ended up winning a pilot program for one free bus route per borough in 2023—a modest but tangible victory that became a key part of Mamdani’s mayoral campaign. Mark Chiusano, Time, 14 Aug. 2025 What distinguishes me is a proven legacy of leadership and tangible outcomes. Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 13 Aug. 2025 With a steady drumbeat of crises, cutting through requires fresh angles, clear analogies and tangible stories. Shaun Walsh, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tangible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tangible
Adjective
  • The new species was identified by its scale pattern, skeleton, jaws, body proportions and other subtle physical features, the study said.
    Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 14 Aug. 2025
  • The patient’s physical condition eventually normalized and his psychotic symptoms subsided during his three-week hospital stint.
    Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 14 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Since the pandemic, there’s been a noticeable drop in vaccination rates among kids.
    ​Wendy Wisner, Parents, 8 Aug. 2025
  • But a noticeable upswing in Perseid activity begins during the second week of August, leading up to their peak night.
    Joe Rao, Space.com, 8 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Kennedy’s rich family heritage on that land is palpable.
    Vivian Jones, The Tennessean, 21 Aug. 2025
  • Delegates noted the energy was palpable — a city teeming with theater, comedy, street performance and packed houses lent the film festival a buzz that few midsize events can replicate.
    Callum McLennan, Variety, 20 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tangible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tangible. Accessed 25 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tangible

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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