ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sensible

adj.
US //ˈsɛnsəbəɫ// UK //sˈɛnsəbəl// sen·si·ble
  1. 1 practical and wise (adj.)
    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.

    Example

    It was sensible of her to save some money for emergencies.

    Example

    A sensible approach to the budget deficit would involve cutting unnecessary spending while protecting essential public services.
    Pitfall
    She 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'.

  2. 2 functional clothing (adj.)
    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.

    Example

    You should wear sensible shoes if you plan to walk all day.

    Example

    The hikers were advised to pack sensible layers of clothing to prepare for the unpredictable mountain weather.
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  1. 3 perceptible (adj.)
    C2 Proficiency Formal Literary

    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.

    Example

    There was a sensible change in the temperature as the sun went down.

    Example

    The philosopher argued that the sensible world—the one we can touch and see—is merely a shadow of a higher reality.
    • imperceptible
  2. 4 aware (adj.)
    C2 Proficiency Archaic Formal

    knowing or being aware of something.

    possessing knowledge or awareness of a particular fact or situation.

    Example

    He was sensible of the great honour they had given him.

    Example

    The diplomat remained sensible of the political tensions underlying the trade negotiations, choosing his words with extreme caution.
Origin

From Latin sēnsibilis (“perceptible by the senses, having feeling, sensible”), from sentiō (“to feel, perceive”).

Word family

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