ponderable

Definition of ponderablenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective ponderable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of ponderable are appreciable, palpable, perceptible, sensible, and tangible. While all these words mean "apprehensible as real or existent," ponderable suggests having definitely measurable weight or importance.

exerted a ponderable influence on world events

When could appreciable be used to replace ponderable?

In some situations, the words appreciable and ponderable are roughly equivalent. However, appreciable applies to what is distinctly discernible by the senses or definitely measurable.

an appreciable increase in income

Where would palpable be a reasonable alternative to ponderable?

The meanings of palpable and ponderable largely overlap; however, palpable applies either to what has physical substance or to what is obvious and unmistakable.

the tension in the air was almost palpable

When can perceptible be used instead of ponderable?

The synonyms perceptible and ponderable are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 sensible a more appropriate choice than ponderable?

While the synonyms sensible and ponderable are close in meaning, sensible applies to whatever is clearly apprehended through the senses or impresses itself strongly on the mind.

an abrupt, sensible drop in temperature

When might tangible be a better fit than ponderable?

The words tangible and ponderable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, tangible suggests what is capable of being handled or grasped both physically and mentally.

no tangible evidence of UFOs

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ponderable
Adjective
  • The teenage phenom is able to complement his obvious technical skills with a flair and maturity in high-pressure situations that is well beyond his years.
    Ashley Mowreader, NBC news, 3 July 2026
  • This was most obvious during Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour, when brands capitalized on all things Taylor — friendship bracelets, themed drinks and even concert outfits.
    Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • One prominent Cherokee named Katteuha co-wrote a letter to Benjamin Franklin during the Constitutional Convention in 1787, urging him to push for peace between the Native people and settlers.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • The effect of protostar outflows on their environment can be seen in the JWST image via the prominent blue ridges.
    Robert Lea, Space.com, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • Venus Venus is conspicuous as July's long evening twilights fade.
    Joe Rao, Space.com, 1 July 2026
  • Unlike Jefferson, however, Washington was very concerned about his image and wanted to avoid conspicuous presentations of luxury, according to Miller.
    Ava Berger, NPR, 28 June 2026
Adjective
  • Enter one of the 315 guestrooms and suites and automatic blinds open to reveal striking runway views.
    Allison Tibaldi, USA Today, 4 July 2026
  • Amazingly, for all his striking power, Mbappé may not be France’s most crucial player.
    Sally Jenkins, The Atlantic, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • North America was the main surprise, while Africa also contributed a noticeable share of the increase from a much smaller base.
    Robert Rapier, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026
  • Frustingly for Croatia, Matanović’s tiny touch was barely noticeable with the naked eye.
    Ben Church, CNN Money, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • The camaraderie was evident on the ground here in La Guaira, the coastal city where quake damage was most severe, collapsing dozens of buildings.
    Mery Mogollón, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2026
  • That rotation was quite evident in our portfolio across Wednesday and Thursday, with the likes of AI winner Corning selling off hard and once-unloved Johnson & Johnson finishing the week at a record close.
    Zev Fima,Kevin Stankiewicz, CNBC, 5 July 2026
Adjective
  • To enter this anniversary uncritically — wrapped in flags and the mythology of manifest destiny — is to be bamboozled.
    Otis Moss III, Chicago Tribune, 28 June 2026
  • In a sport where just one player can change lives and where a market like theirs should offer a manifest destiny, the team delivered, mostly, pain.
    Mike Vorkunov, New York Times, 14 June 2026
Adjective
  • But that buy-in has to actually be fortified by something tangible.
    Paul Tenorio, New York Times, 5 July 2026
  • The Bruins’ fire sale in March of 2025 has already paid tangible dividends.
    Steve Conroy, Boston Herald, 5 July 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Ponderable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ponderable. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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