a bit sensible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit sensible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is somewhat reasonable or logical, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "While his plan has some flaws, I think it's a bit sensible given the circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Let's all be a bit sensible here, and accept that we are not entitled to know everything about everyone all the time.

The Guardian

It is not a usual way to spend 15 minutes with your workmates, so how is it going down? "We're all a bit sensible, we're all a bit careful," says one of those who took part.

BBC

"There probably are some inappropriate costumes," says Burns. "I suppose it's similar to Glastonbury in that sense parents have to be a bit sensible.

Vice

"There probably are some inappropriate costumes," says Gary. "I suppose it's similar to Glastonbury in that sense – parents have to be a bit sensible.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

All the Minister's arguments are very sensible, but Biju's aren't one bit sensible — in fact, after a while he stops answering altogether and instead begins to tear up the newspaper he has been reading and makes paper darts out of it.

The New Yorker

Buyers are becoming a bit more sensible".

The Guardian - Business

And if that all sounds a bit too sensible, there is always the Runcible.

The Economist

CASSIDY: Romney, of course, you know on the economy is a bit more sensible.

The New Yorker

Football is a lot more technical and a bit more sensible.

The Guardian - Sport

One bank suggested that they use the space for something a bit more sensible, like a drugstore.

The New York Times

One bank suggested that they use the 20,000-square-foot space for something a bit more sensible, say renting it to a drugstore.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a bit sensible", consider the context and ensure it aligns with the intended degree of reasonableness. Overuse may dilute the impact; opt for stronger alternatives when greater emphasis is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "a bit sensible" when the situation requires a more decisive statement. For example, instead of saying "The plan is a bit sensible", if you strongly believe in the plan's logic, state: "The plan is entirely sensible."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit sensible" functions as an adverbial modifier, softening the adjective "sensible". It expresses a degree of reasonableness or practicality, indicating that something is moderately logical or judicious. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bit sensible" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to express a moderate degree of reasonableness or practicality. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is acceptable in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears predominantly in news and media contexts, often softening a statement to indicate partial agreement or cautious endorsement. For more formal settings, consider using alternatives such as "somewhat reasonable" or "moderately practical" for greater precision and impact. Remember to maintain context-appropriate usage to avoid diluting the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat reasonable

Indicates a moderate degree of reason or justification.

slightly logical

Suggests a minor degree of adherence to logic.

moderately practical

Highlights a limited level of usefulness or efficiency.

kind of rational

Implies a certain degree of rationality, though possibly not entirely.

somewhat prudent

Suggests a degree of carefulness and foresight.

relatively sound

Indicates a degree of reliability or validity.

reasonably wise

Implies a limited level of good judgment and experience.

partly judicious

Suggests a degree of discernment and sound judgment, but not completely.

mildly judicious

Suggests a slight level of discernment and good judgment.

a touch pragmatic

Highlights a small inclination toward practical considerations.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit sensible" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit sensible" to describe an idea, action, or person that shows a moderate amount of good judgment or reason. For example: "Wearing a helmet while biking is "a bit sensible".".

What are some alternatives to saying "a bit sensible"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "somewhat reasonable", "slightly logical", or "moderately practical".

Is it more appropriate to say "a bit sensible" or "somewhat sensible"?

Both "a bit sensible" and "somewhat sensible" are acceptable. "A bit sensible" is slightly more informal, while "somewhat sensible" might be perceived as slightly more formal. The choice depends on the tone and context of your writing.

How does "a bit sensible" compare to "entirely sensible" in meaning?

"A bit sensible" indicates a moderate degree of good judgment, while "entirely sensible" suggests complete and unquestionable reason. Using "entirely sensible" emphasizes the full and complete rationality of something.