What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sensible
Example
It's sensible to save money for emergencies. [sensible: adjective]
Example
She made a sensible decision to wait until she had more information before making a choice. [sensible: adjective]
Example
The sensible thing to do is to take an umbrella since it might rain. [sensible: noun]
practical
Example
A practical solution to the traffic problem is to encourage carpooling. [practical: adjective]
Example
He has practical experience in repairing cars. [practical: adjective]
Example
The practicality of the plan is questionable given the limited resources available. [practicality: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Practical is more commonly used than sensible in everyday language, especially in American English. Practical is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while sensible is less common and more commonly used in British English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sensible and practical?
Both sensible and practical can be used in formal and informal contexts, but sensible may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with British English.
