Reasonably
ˈriːz(ə)nəbli
Definitions
2 meaningsTo a satisfactory degree; fairly; moderately.
ˈriːz(ə)nəbli
In a way that is fair, practical, and sensible.
The price of the car was reasonably low.
💡 Simply: It's like doing something in a way that makes sense and is fair. Imagine your friend wants a slice of cake, and you split it reasonably so everyone gets a fair share!
👶 For kids: Doing something in a way that makes sense and is fair.
More Examples
She spoke reasonably and calmly.
They expected a reasonably quick response.
How It's Used
"The company priced its products reasonably."
"He acted reasonably after the argument."
To a moderate degree; fairly.
ˈriːz(ə)nəbli
To a moderate extent; not excessively.
The food was reasonably tasty.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're rating something. 'Reasonably' means it's good, but not the best ever. Think of a restaurant – the food was reasonably tasty, not amazing, but enjoyable!
👶 For kids: Not too much, not too little; just right.
More Examples
We had a reasonably comfortable journey.
The movie was reasonably entertaining.
How It's Used
"The hotel room was reasonably priced."
"The quality of the service was reasonably good."
From 'reason' + '-ably'. 'Reason' comes from Old French 'raison', ultimately from Latin 'ratio' (reckoning, account). The suffix '-ably' indicates 'in a reasonable manner'.
Used since the 16th century, developing from the concept of acting or speaking in accordance with reason and fairness.
Memory tip
Think of 'reason' and 'able' – doing something 'able' to be explained by reason.