Synonyms of tangible

tangible

adjective

ˈtan-jə-bəl 

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

• physical
• noticeable
• palpable
• touchable
• visible
• tactile
• real
• actual
• substantial
• corporeal
• observable
• perceptible
• discernible
• concrete
• embodied
• appreciable
• existent
• detectable
• discernable
• seeable
• material
• sensible

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• intangible
• immaterial
• impalpable
• spiritual
• abstract
• insubstantial
• incorporeal
• nonphysical
• virtual
• nonmaterial
• unsubstantial
• formless
• unreal
• bodiless
• ethereal
• imperceptible
• unbodied
• insensible

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

Recent Examples of tangible

Beijing recognizes Trump’s transactional mindset, which prioritizes short-term, tangible benefits over more predictable long-term strategic interests requiring sustained investment. —Linggong Kong, The Conversation, 25 Mar. 2025

His return home, after the longest hospitalization of his 12-year papacy and the second-longest in recent papal history, brought tangible relief to the Vatican and Catholic faithful who have been anxiously following 38 days of medical ups and downs and wondering if Francis would make it. —arkansasonline.com, 24 Mar. 2025

Ángela Aguilar has a tangible presence — even over Zoom. —Griselda Flores, Billboard, 24 Mar. 2025

Recognition matters, but opening doors and making opportunities tangible matters more. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025