reasonable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
reasonable Word Meanings
- fair and sensible
- based on good sense
- moderate and not extreme
reasonable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
reasonable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈriː.zən.ə.bəl/
US
/ˈrizənəbl/
reasonable Word Etymology
re- = again + reason = cause, explanation. Originated from Middle English, from Old French raisonnable, from Latin rationabilis. Visualize a person weighing options again and again until reaching a fair decision.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I move my attention from an impulse to a steady choice. I push ideas forward, pull back the ones that don't fit, and adjust my plan until it feels fair and sensible. I set a modest goal and keep it in sight, letting the outcome stay moderate rather than extreme.
Real Context
Reasonable is a flexible adjective that helps you describe judgments, actions, or expectations that are fair, sensible, and measured. In everyday speech, we use it when a choice feels balanced, when evidence supports a prudent course, or when a decision should reflect good sense rather than emotion. The nuance includes moderation: something reasonable is neither extreme nor reckless. The word often pairs with nouns like suggestion, price, argument, or deadline to convey that the option is safely acceptable rather than perfect. Remember that reasonable can describe people’s behavior as prudent, but it can also describe a proposal as acceptable without being exciting.
Usage Reminders
- Be careful not to equate reasonable with perfect.
- Use it for fair, evidence-based judgments or plans.
- Pair with nouns like price, proposal, or deadline.
- It often signals moderation, not enthusiasm.
- Context matters: different situations shift the strength of the claim.
Common Misconceptions
- It means something is perfect or exactly as expected.
- It always describes a price as cheap.
- If something is reasonable, it must be the best option.
- Reasonable and fair are always the same thing.
- You can use it for emotions, not just facts.
Thinking Differences
Reasonable sits between extremes for English speakers, blending fairness, practicality, and evidence. Learners often think it means merely 'not bad' or 'almost perfect,' but in real use it marks a prudent, balanced stance that depends on context and evidence.
Learning Tips
- Practice using reasonable with price, plan, and deadline to see how tone shifts.
- Compare not only to perfect but to fair and feasible options.
- Notice how context raises or lowers the strength of the claim.
- Pair with adverbs like 'quite' or 'barely' to adjust nuance.
- Use collocations like reasonable doubt, reasonable expectation in formal writing.
- Review common mistakes where learners equate reasonable with 'okay'.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'reasonable' correctly?
A.She demanded an unreasonable amount of money for her services.
B.He made a sensible and reasonable decision based on the evidence provided.
C.The cake was reasonable and delicious.
D.They had a happy and reasonable conversation.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'reasonable'?
A.Ridiculous
B.Practical
C.Crazy
D.Foolish
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'reasonable'?
A.Calm
B.Sane
C.Irrational
D.Logical
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario where being 'reasonable' is important?
A.She always listens to others and tries to reach a reasonable compromise.
B.He solved the problem based on emotions rather than a reasoned approach.
C.The situation escalated due to lack of communication and reasonable discussion.
D.They acted impulsively without any regard for being reasonable.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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