reasonable
REE-zuh-nuh-buhl
Reasonable (adj) means Fair and sensible; based on good judgment. Example: “That seems like a reasonable compromise for both sides.”
adj
1
Fair and sensible; based on good judgment.
"That seems like a reasonable compromise for both sides."
"He made a reasonable request, given the circumstances."
"Be reasonable; nobody can finish the whole project in one afternoon."
2
Not too expensive; fairly priced.
"The hotel offered a reasonable rate for a room with a view."
"We found a small cafe with reasonable prices near the station."
"The garage gave us a reasonable quote for repairing the brakes."
How to use reasonable
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSensible and fair, or, when describing prices, not overly expensive.
Common pairings
reasonable price
reasonable doubt
within reason
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more reasonable
- Superlative
- most reasonable
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
That seems like a _____ compromise for both sides.
Etymology
From Old French resnable, from Latin ratiōnābilis, from ratiō ("reason") — a doublet of rationable.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for reasonable
See all rhymes for reasonable →Frequently asked questions
What does “reasonable” mean?
The word “reasonable” means fair and sensible; based on good judgment. In plain terms, sensible and fair, or, when describing prices, not overly expensive.
How do you pronounce “reasonable”?
“Reasonable” is pronounced REE-zuh-nuh-buhl (/ˈɹi.zə.nə.bəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “reasonable” in a sentence?
Here is “reasonable” used in a sentence: “That seems like a reasonable compromise for both sides.”
What part of speech is “reasonable”?
“Reasonable” is an adjective.
Where does the word “reasonable” come from?
The word “reasonable” comes from Latin. From Old French resnable, from Latin ratiōnābilis, from ratiō ("reason") — a doublet of rationable.
Is “reasonable” a common word?
“Reasonable” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “reasonable” have?
“Reasonable” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: fair and sensible; based on good judgment.
What is the difference between reasonable and rational?
Both involve good thinking, but they differ in emphasis. "Rational" means based strictly on logic and reason, free of emotion. "Reasonable" is broader and warmer — it means fair, sensible, and moderate, taking circumstances and other people into account. A decision can be rational yet still feel unreasonable if it ignores fairness.
Is 'reasonable' a positive word?
Generally, yes. Calling someone or something reasonable is a compliment, suggesting fairness, good sense, and balance. A reasonable price is a fair one; a reasonable person listens and compromises. It can be faint praise, though — "reasonable" quality means acceptable rather than excellent, so tone and context matter.
What is the opposite of reasonable?
The main opposites are "unreasonable" and "irrational," meaning unfair, illogical, or based on poor judgment. Depending on context, antonyms include excessive, extreme, absurd, or, for prices, exorbitant. An unreasonable demand is one that ignores fairness or common sense and asks for far more than is sensible.
What is an example of reasonable behaviour?
Agreeing to a fair compromise, listening to both sides before deciding, or setting a price that reflects true value are all reasonable. So is expecting a colleague to reply within a day rather than within minutes. Reasonable behaviour weighs the facts and treats people fairly and sensibly.
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