Plausible
'plɔːzəb(ə)l
Definitions
Seeming likely to be true, valid, or acceptable; credible.
'plɔːzəb(ə)l
Appearing to be true, reasonable, or possible.
Her excuse for being late seemed plausible, but I still had my doubts.
💡 Simply: When something is plausible, it means it sounds like it could be real or true. Imagine your friend telling you why they were late, and it makes sense - that's plausible!
👶 For kids: If something is plausible, it means it sounds like it could be real or true.
More Examples
The scientists offered a plausible explanation for the strange phenomenon.
The evidence presented in court painted a plausible scenario of the events.
How It's Used
"The detective presented a plausible explanation for the crime."
"The theory, while complex, seems plausible given the experimental evidence."
"The defense attorney argued that his client's alibi was plausible."
Idioms & expressions
a plausible deniability
The ability of people to deny knowledge of or responsibility for actions because of a lack of evidence that can confirm their involvement.
"The company created a system of plausible deniability to shield the CEO from the scandal."
From Latin plausibilis, meaning "deserving applause" or "apparently true". It is derived from plaudere, "to clap, applaud."
The word 'plausible' has been used since the 17th century, evolving from its original meaning of deserving applause to its current meaning of being believable or credible.
Memory tip
Think of a story that deserves applause (plausible) because it sounds like it could actually happen.