Definition of Sensible
Quick Meaning of Sensible
Having good sense and making practical, reasonable decisions; or able to notice or feel something.
Detailed Definition of Sensible
Showing good practical judgment; able to perceive or be aware of something.
How to Pronounce Sensible
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: SENS-uh-bul with stress on first syllable. The final "-ble" is pronounced as schwa + "bul" /əbl/.
Watch out: Sometimes stressed on second syllable sen-SI-ble; correct stress is SEN-sible.
Origin and Etymology of Sensible
From Latin "sensibilis" meaning "capable of sensation", from "sensus" (feeling).
How to Use Sensible in a Sentence
Each example shows “sensible” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“She made a sensible decision to save money for emergencies.”
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“It is sensible to wear a seatbelt while driving a car.”
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“The sensible approach was to gather all available data before making the decision.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Sensible
Common Synonyms for Sensible
Smart Synonyms for Sensible — When to Use Each
- practical
- for decisions focused on real-world usefulness
- reasonable
- for logic-based and fair judgments
- prudent
- for careful risk-aware decision-making
Common Collocations with Sensible
These phrases pair with “sensible” in everyday English:
- sensible decision
- sensible choice
- sensible approach
- sensible shoes
- sensible thing
Common Mistakes When Using Sensible
Even fluent speakers slip up with “sensible”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: Your idea is very sensible idea.
- ✓ Correct: Your idea is very sensible.
- Why: Do not repeat "idea" after adjective; use "sensible" alone as the predicate adjective.
- ✗ Wrong: This is more sensible than that.
- ✓ Correct: This is more sensible than that one.
- Why: Include "one" or a noun after "than" in comparisons with adjectives.
- ✗ Wrong: It was not sensible spending all your money.
- ✓ Correct: It was not sensible to spend all your money.
- Why: After "sensible", use "to + infinitive", not "gerund (verb-ing)".
Words Confused With Sensible
- Sensible vs Sensitive: Sensible means showing good judgment; sensitive means easily affected by feelings or physical sensations. Compare →
Other Forms of Sensible
- Noun: sensibility
- Adjective: sensible
- Adverb: sensibly
Frequently Asked Questions About Sensible
What is the meaning of "Sensible"?
Having good sense and making practical, reasonable decisions; or able to notice or feel something.
How do you pronounce "Sensible"?
The IPA is /ˈsensəbl/. SENS-uh-bul with stress on first syllable. The final "-ble" is pronounced as schwa + "bul" /əbl/.
What part of speech is "Sensible"?
"Sensible" is an adjective at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Sensible"?
Common synonyms include practical, reasonable, wise.
How do you use "Sensible" in a sentence?
For example: "She made a sensible decision to save money for emergencies."