Sensible
'sɛnsɪbəl
Definitions
2 meaningsHaving or showing good sense or judgment; reasonable.
'sɛnsɪbəl
Showing good judgment and practical understanding.
It's sensible to wear a coat when it's cold outside.
💡 Simply: Imagine your friend needs to choose between two outfits. A 'sensible' outfit is the practical one that's good for the weather and the activity, while a 'silly' outfit might be pretty, but impractical. 'Sensible' means making smart choices.
👶 For kids: Being sensible means making good choices that are smart and safe.
More Examples
He gave a sensible explanation for the problem.
She's a sensible person who always thinks things through.
How It's Used
"She made a sensible decision about her career."
"It's sensible to save for retirement."
"Parents should teach their children sensible life choices."
(Of a person or animal) able to perceive sensations; aware of surroundings.
'sɛnsɪbəl
Able to perceive or feel things through the senses.
The animal's sense organs were very sensible.
💡 Simply: Sometimes the word describes how you can use your senses! If something is sensible to you, your senses can perceive it.
👶 For kids: Able to feel or notice things with your senses (like seeing, hearing, touching).
More Examples
The artist presented a sensible depiction of the scene.
How It's Used
"Sensible objects are those that can be perceived through the senses."
"The data is presented in a sensible manner."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Sensible shoes
Shoes that are practical, comfortable, and safe, often lacking in fashion-forward style.
"She wore sensible shoes to the hiking trail, not high heels."
From Middle French *sensible*, from Latin *sensibilis* ("perceptible, that can be felt"), from *sentio* ("I feel, perceive").
The word 'sensible' has been used since the 14th century to describe the ability to perceive through the senses and, later, to denote good judgment.
Memory tip
Think of someone using their senses well to make a good decision.