TANGIBLE Synonyms: 40 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'tangible' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of tangible are appreciable , palpable , perceptible , ponderable , and sensible . While all these words mean "apprehensible as real or existent," tangible suggests what is capable of being handled or grasped both physically and mentally. // no tangible evidence of UFOs

Q: When might 'appreciable' be a better fit than 'tangible'?

The words appreciable and tangible can be used in similar contexts, but appreciable applies to what is distinctly discernible by the senses or definitely measurable. // an appreciable increase in income

Q: When is it sensible to use 'palpable' instead of 'tangible'?

The synonyms palpable and tangible are sometimes interchangeable, but palpable applies either to what has physical substance or to what is obvious and unmistakable. // the tension in the air was almost palpable

Q: In what contexts can 'perceptible' take the place of 'tangible'?

Although the words perceptible and tangible have much in common, perceptible applies to what can be discerned by the senses often to a minimal extent. // a perceptible difference in sound to a careful listener

Q: When is 'ponderable' a more appropriate choice than 'tangible'?

The meanings of ponderable and tangible largely overlap; however, ponderable suggests having definitely measurable weight or importance. // exerted a ponderable influence on world events

Q: When could 'sensible' be used to replace 'tangible'?

While in some cases nearly identical to tangible , sensible applies to whatever is clearly apprehended through the senses or impresses itself strongly on the mind. // an abrupt, sensible drop in temperature

tangible

adjective

ˈtan-jə-bəl

Definition of tangible next

as in physical

capable of being perceived by the sense of touch a firm belief in the existence of the soul, even though it is not at all tangible

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How does the adjective tangible contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of tangible are appreciable, palpable, perceptible, ponderable, and sensible. While all these words mean "apprehensible as real or existent," tangible suggests what is capable of being handled or grasped both physically and mentally.

no tangible evidence of UFOs

When might appreciable be a better fit than tangible?

The words appreciable and tangible can be used in similar contexts, but appreciable applies to what is distinctly discernible by the senses or definitely measurable.

an appreciable increase in income

When is it sensible to use palpable instead of tangible?

The synonyms palpable and tangible are sometimes interchangeable, but palpable applies either to what has physical substance or to what is obvious and unmistakable.

the tension in the air was almost palpable

In what contexts can perceptible take the place of tangible?

Although the words perceptible and tangible have much in common, perceptible applies to what can be discerned by the senses often to a minimal extent.

a perceptible difference in sound to a careful listener

When is ponderable a more appropriate choice than tangible?

The meanings of ponderable and tangible largely overlap; however, ponderable suggests having definitely measurable weight or importance.

exerted a ponderable influence on world events

When could sensible be used to replace tangible?

While in some cases nearly identical to tangible, sensible applies to whatever is clearly apprehended through the senses or impresses itself strongly on the mind.

an abrupt, sensible drop in temperature

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of tangible Still, facing competition and without a clear leadership group to organize and finance a bid, there remain hurdles to any tangible progress to bring back the Sting. —

Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 5 Feb. 2025 As technology continues to transform the field, many practitioners seem eager to tap into something more tangible. —

Rachel Gallaher, Robb Report, 2 Feb. 2025 The physical space between partners can mirror this emotional void, creating a silent but tangible disconnection. —

Mark Travers, Forbes, 1 Feb. 2025 Continental notes were not backed by tangible assets such as gold or silver, but by the trust and promise of the new nation. —

Joel Thayer, Newsweek, 27 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for tangible

Recent Examples of Synonyms for tangible

Adjective

Regular mindfulness practices may improve your ability to cope with the physical and emotional challenges of menopause, including hot flashes.78 Practicing mindfulness can involve yoga, meditation, or even just noticing your breath or the sights and sounds around you at any moment.9 4.

— Sarah Jividen, Health, 15 Feb. 2025
Some of the Israeli hostages who have returned since January 19 have reported being deprived of food, held in tunnels for months and not seeing daylight, and being subjected to physical and psychological abuse.

— Nidal al-Mughrabi, USA TODAY, 15 Feb. 2025