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 For Coinbase itself, the win is both symbolic and tied to tangible rewards. Catherine Baab, Quartz, 13 May 2025 Use tangible rewards as incentives to kickoff healthy lifestyle changes. Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 13 May 2025 The bank also raised its full-year net profit guidance to 9.3 billion euros, which could take its return on tangible equity to more than 17%. Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 12 May 2025 Unveiling plans for a new stadium before financing had been secured or there was anything tangible to say on government input felt to some experienced observers like a strategic move by Ratcliffe to change fan sentiment after he had been criticised for ticket price rises and mass redundancies. Adam Crafton, New York Times, 12 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for tangible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tangible
Adjective
  • Two runs in the sixth came courtesy of a mental error and a physical error by the Rockies.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 May 2025
  • In this new role, Lindsey will lead the strategic design and development of exhibits and physical experiences at the Amazeum and with partner institutions across the region.
    Deb Harvell, Arkansas Online, 11 May 2025
Adjective
  • While Steve Austin's presence at WWE WrestleMania 41 was a highlight for many fans, his entrance wasn't without a minor, yet noticeable, hiccup.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 May 2025
  • While all of the men had shaved heads and were wearing cloaks with a mysterious symbol on the back, the group's most noticeable trait was that each and every member had Glasgow smile-type scars carved into their faces.
    Megan McCluskey, Time, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The excitement is palpable, as the schedules for all 32 teams are now out.
    Ricardo Klein, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 May 2025
  • While some analysts still debate whether a formal recession is looming, the economic slowdown is palpable for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
    Cynthia Pong, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tangible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tangible. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tangible

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