Definition of tangiblenext

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 Still, Mars in Taurus prefers steadiness, patience and tangible results, while Pluto retrograde in Aquarius exposes deeper issues around control and social structures. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 28 May 2026 This leads to tangible consequences. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 28 May 2026 With Xbox also celebrating 25 years, there may be room for something a little more tangible to mark the moment, too. Tom Warren, The Verge, 28 May 2026 To him, every single robotic box that rolls off the assembly line represents a tangible step toward a completely staffless retail economy. Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for tangible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tangible
Adjective
  • At the time, detectives collected and preserved physical evidence but were unable to narrow down a suspect.
    Saleen Martin, USA Today, 29 May 2026
  • As for agentic commerce, in Jain’s framing, only Google, Anthropic, and Bilt have the breadth of demand-side merchant integrations to power AI commerce in the physical world.
    Lily Mae Lazarus, Fortune, 29 May 2026
Adjective
  • This is particularly noticeable in the ballroom area, which hosts weekly wedding events, as well as other social and business functions.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • But let’s get back to that extraordinary customizable dashboard, one of the most noticeable features.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 2 June 2026
Adjective
  • Our student section is palpable and no one left.
    Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 1 June 2026
  • Porowski’s excitement is palpable, an eye-opening foray through an urban expanse packed with possibilities.
    Laura Manske, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026
Adjective
  • The undone, tousled, and touchable look is created through mineral-rich sea salt for grit without dehydration, while microalgae doubles down on hydration to keep lengths soft.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 1 June 2026
  • The all-purpose knob in my Mazda CX-5 never felt comfortable or intuitive and actually felt more distracting than if the car’s display had been touchable.
    TC Sottek, The Verge, 27 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Tangible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tangible. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.

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