perfectly sensible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "perfectly sensible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an idea, suggestion, or action that is completely reasonable and logical. Example: "Her explanation for the decision was perfectly sensible, considering the circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Perfectly sensible".

Independent

That's all perfectly sensible.

The New York Times

It was also perfectly sensible.

The Economist

Littledale's advice was usually perfectly sensible.

The New Yorker

This is perfectly sensible and legitimate.

The New Yorker

But on another level, it may be perfectly sensible.

The New York Times

Quite a lot of Leveson is perfectly sensible.

Independent

All of which is perfectly sensible, yet puzzling.

The Economist

Bringing in more outside capital is thus perfectly sensible.

The Economist

In isolation each of these changes seems perfectly sensible.

The Economist

But I think it's a perfectly sensible world view.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "perfectly sensible" to convey that a decision, action, or idea is not only reasonable but also well-justified and sound. It's stronger than just 'sensible'.

Common error

While "perfectly sensible" is widely applicable, reserve it for situations where you want to emphasize the complete rationality or wisdom of something. In casual conversation, simpler terms like "reasonable" or "makes sense" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "perfectly sensible" is to act as a modifier, specifically an adjective phrase, that describes a noun. It indicates that something is not only reasonable but also entirely logical and sound. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "perfectly sensible" is a widely used and grammatically correct adjective phrase that signifies something is entirely reasonable and logical. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Its primary function is to modify nouns, expressing agreement or approval, and is commonly found in neutral to professional registers. While versatile, it's most prevalent in news and media, followed by formal business contexts. When aiming to convey a high degree of reasonableness, "perfectly sensible" is a sound choice, but remember to adjust the register appropriately for the intended audience. Consider alternatives like "eminently sensible" or "entirely reasonable" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wholly sensible

Emphasizes the completeness of the sensibility, implying that there is no doubt about its reasonableness.

absolutely sensible

Strengthens the affirmation of sensibility, leaving no room for doubt.

entirely sensible

Similar to "wholly sensible", it underscores that the sensibility is complete and without reservation.

perfectly logical

Focuses on the logical consistency of something, rather than its general reasonableness or practicality.

totally sensible

An informal equivalent emphasizing complete sensibility.

eminently sensible

Highlights the high degree of sensibility or reasonableness, often implying that it is particularly noteworthy.

thoroughly sensible

Indicates that the sensibility has been carefully considered and is well-founded.

quite sensible

Indicates a moderate level of sensibility, suggesting that something is reasonably acceptable or appropriate.

patently reasonable

Highlights the obvious and undeniable reasonableness of something.

clearly sensible

Stresses the obvious nature of the sensibility, suggesting that it is easily apparent or evident.

FAQs

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

You can use "perfectly sensible" to describe actions, decisions, or ideas that are completely reasonable and logical. For example, "Her explanation for the decision was perfectly sensible, considering the circumstances".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "perfectly sensible"?

Alternatives to "perfectly sensible" include "eminently sensible", "entirely reasonable", or "completely logical" depending on the context.

Is "perfectly sensible" formal or informal?

"Perfectly sensible" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it's more commonly found in written or spoken communication where clarity and precision are valued. In very casual settings, shorter phrases might be preferred.

What's the difference between "perfectly sensible" and "sensible"?

"Perfectly sensible" emphasizes a higher degree of reasonableness and soundness than simply "sensible". It suggests that something is not just reasonable, but entirely and unquestionably so.