sensible
- 01 B1 Intermediate
showing good judgement and making decisions based on reason rather than emotion.
acting with or exhibiting sound judgement; possessing the ability to make rational decisions based on practical wisdom.
Simple“It was sensible of her to save some money for emergencies.”
In context“A sensible approach to the budget deficit would involve cutting unnecessary spending while protecting essential public services.”
PitfallShe is very sensible to other people's feelings. She is very sensitive to other people's feelings.In English, 'sensible' means practical or wise. If you mean someone who feels emotions easily or notices small changes, use 'sensitive'.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
chosen because it is comfortable and useful, not because it looks fashionable.
designed for utility, comfort, or durability rather than for style or aesthetic display.
Simple“You should wear sensible shoes if you plan to walk all day.”
In context“The hikers were advised to pack sensible layers of clothing to prepare for the unpredictable mountain weather.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 C2 Proficiency
large or strong enough to be noticed by your senses.
capable of being perceived by the senses or the intellect; having a physical or tangible presence.
Simple“There was a sensible change in the temperature as the sun went down.”
In context“The philosopher argued that the sensible world—the one we can touch and see—is merely a shadow of a higher reality.”
SynonymsAntonymsimperceptible - 04 C2 Proficiency
knowing or being aware of something.
possessing knowledge or awareness of a particular fact or situation.
Simple“He was sensible of the great honour they had given him.”
In context“The diplomat remained sensible of the political tensions underlying the trade negotiations, choosing his words with extreme caution.”
sensible vs sensitive — Sensible describes a person's logic and judgment, while sensitive describes their emotional or physical responsiveness.
From Latin sēnsibilis (“perceptible by the senses, having feeling, sensible”), from sentiō (“to feel, perceive”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.