tangible

adjective

ˈtan-jə-bəl How to pronounce tangible (audio)
Definition of tangiblenext
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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

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 Almost all tangible personal property that costs $500 or less is tax-free during those two weeks, according to the state. —Chad Murphy, The Enquirer, 23 July 2025 Ramsey’s quiet confidence and Oliphant’s contagious enthusiasm (both in and out of the water) were tangible. —Erin Johnson, People.com, 22 July 2025 Cramer said investors aren’t buying Kohl’s for any tangible reason, such as its business with cosmetics company Sephora or partnership with Amazon. —Julie Coleman, CNBC, 22 July 2025 There’s a common uncertainty around where to begin and a lingering question: What real, tangible value will AI bring to the table? —Steve Cangiano, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for tangible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tangible
  1. physical
  2. noticeable
  3. palpable
Adjective
  • Need to know: Disappearance of Neanderthals Neanderthals inhabited Europe and Asia beginning about 400,000 years ago—but by roughly 40,000 years ago, physical evidence of them vanishes from the archaeological record.
    — Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 July 2025
  • The brain disorder is caused by the accumulation of excessive cerebrospinal fluid in the brain’s ventricles, leading to a range of cognitive and physical problems, particularly issues with gait, coordination, and bladder control.
    — Althea Legaspi, Rolling Stone, 21 July 2025
Definition of physical
Adjective
  • Some people find that getting a tan makes their acne less noticeable, but these effects are temporary.
    — Sherri Gordon, Health, 15 July 2025
  • Speaking of titles with a noticeable presence on the streaming originals list is Stranger Things, which hasn’t debuted any new episodes in three years.
    — Katie Campione, Deadline, 14 July 2025
Definition of noticeable
Adjective
  • The disappointment is palpable in a team that won the World Series as recently as four years ago and has veteran skipper Brian Snitker, in the last year of his contract, looking toward retirement.
    — Barry M. Bloom, Sportico.com, 14 July 2025
  • The joy emanating from the largely millennial devotees was palpable, from the white clothing blanketing the stands to the breathless commentary throughout the concert.
    — Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 13 July 2025
Definition of palpable

Browse Nearby Words

tangibility
tangible
tangibleness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tangible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tangible. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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