phrase

makes sense

mayks SENS

Makes sense (phrase) means Is easy to understand, or fits logically with what is already known. The base form is "make sense". Example: “Now that you've explained the timeline, the whole plan makes sense.”

phrase

Is easy to understand, or fits logically with what is already known. The base form is "make sense".

"Now that you've explained the timeline, the whole plan makes sense."

"None of this makes sense to me."

Is a sensible or reasonable thing to do.

"It makes sense to book the flights early while they're cheap."

interjection

informal Used on its own as a short reply meaning that you understand and accept what has just been said.

""I moved the meeting because half the team is away." "Makes sense.""

How to use makes sense

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomething is clear, logical, or a sensible thing to do.

When to use it

Neutral in full sentences; the one-word reply "Makes sense." is informal.

Memory tip

"Make sense of something" is different: it means to work out what something means, as in "I can't make sense of these instructions".

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

make sense of

Common pairings

that makes sense it makes sense to doesn't make sense perfect sense

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Now that you've explained the timeline, the whole plan _____.

Etymology

From the verb make plus sense in its older meaning of 'meaning' or 'intelligibility'.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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adds up is logical is coherent holds together is wise is reasonable is advisable

Antonyms

makes no sense

Rhymes for makes sense

tense sense dense incense immense offense intense license expense defense nonsense condense

See all rhymes for makes sense →

Frequently asked questions

Is it "makes sense" or "make sense"?

Use "makes sense" with a singular subject such as "it", "that" or "the answer". Use "make sense" with a plural subject or after another verb, as in "these numbers make sense" and "it doesn't make sense".

Is replying "makes sense" rude?

No. On its own it is a friendly, casual way of saying you have understood and agree. It can read as curt in formal writing, where "that makes sense, thank you" is safer.

What is the difference between "makes sense" and "is right"?

"Makes sense" says something is understandable or logical; "is right" says it is factually correct. An explanation can make sense and still be wrong.

What is the meaning of makes sense?

"makes sense" (phrase) means is easy to understand, or fits logically with what is already known. The base form is "make sense".