What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rational
Example
It's not rational to spend all your money on something you don't need. [rational: adjective]
Example
She approached the problem in a rational way, considering all the facts and options. [rational: adverb]
sensible
Example
It's sensible to save some money for emergencies. [sensible: adjective]
Example
She gave me some sensible advice on how to manage my time better. [sensible: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sensible is more commonly used than rational in everyday language, as it is a more versatile word that can be applied to a broader range of situations and behaviors.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between rational and sensible?
Rational is generally considered more formal than sensible, as it is often used in academic or technical contexts where precision and accuracy are important.
