What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reasonable
Example
It's reasonable to expect a raise after working at the company for five years. [reasonable: adjective]
Example
The restaurant's prices are reasonable for the quality of food they serve. [reasonable: adjective]
Example
She approached the problem in a reasonable manner, considering all the facts before making a decision. [reasonable: adverb]
practical
Example
A practical solution to the traffic problem would be to encourage carpooling. [practical: adjective]
Example
He's a practical person who always finds a way to get things done. [practical: adjective]
Example
This backpack is practical for hiking because it has many compartments and is lightweight. [practical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Practical is more commonly used than reasonable in everyday language. Practical is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while reasonable is less common and is more specific to discussions of fairness and logic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reasonable and practical?
Reasonable is typically associated with a formal tone, while practical is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
