Reasonable: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to something fair and moderate, often in terms of expectations, actions, or demands.

• It's reasonable to expect a response within 24 hours.
• The hotel offered a reasonable price for the room.

Use when referring to something that follows clear, rational thought or a set of rules, often used in problem-solving and analytical contexts.

• Given the evidence, the logical conclusion is that the system needs an update.
• It's a logical step to test the hypothesis before moving forward.

Use when referring to something based on reason and logic rather than emotions. Often used in a formal or academic context.

• A rational decision was made after considering all the facts.
• His argument was rational and well-structured.

Use when referring to something that is reasonable and practical, often related to everyday decisions and actions.

• Wearing a coat in the winter is a sensible thing to do.
• It's sensible to save for unexpected expenses.

Use when referring to something that is sensible and useful in real-world situations, often implying hands-on or straightforward solutions.

• She offered some practical advice on how to save money.
• A more practical approach to this problem is to start with a smaller project.

Used to describe something that is sensible and not extreme, often related to prices or decisions.

• The restaurant offers reasonable prices for their meals
• She made a reasonable compromise

Refers to something that is inexpensive and within one's financial means, often used in marketing to appeal to the average consumer.

• They provide affordable housing for young families
• The new smartphone is surprisingly affordable

Refers to something that is average or in the middle range. Can be used to describe prices, amounts, or levels of something.

• The restaurant serves meals at moderate prices
• He has a moderate amount of experience in this field

Often used to describe a price or deal that is just and equitable, particularly in contexts where fairness and balance are important.

• The company offers fair wages to its employees
• The referee made a fair decision

Typically used to describe products or services that are economical and fit within a tight budget. Often used in contexts like travel, shopping, or dining.

• Their budget-friendly vacation packages are very popular
• You can find budget-friendly options at this store

When referring to a person or opinion that is based on good sense and logic, without being overly emotional.

• Her argument was reasonable and well thought out.
• It's reasonable to assume the project will take a few more weeks.

When describing actions or decisions that are practical and show good judgment, often in everyday situations.

• Wearing a coat in the winter is a sensible decision.
• She offered some sensible advice about managing time.

Suitable for contexts where caution and forethought are necessary, especially regarding future implications.

• It's prudent to save some money for emergencies.
• She made a prudent choice by double-checking all the details.

Appropriate for situations requiring wise and careful decision-making, often in a formal or serious context.

• The board made a judicious decision to invest in renewable energy.
• He is known for making judicious use of his resources.

Used when describing someone who is impartial and just, especially in decisions or judgments.

• The judge was known for being fair-minded in all her rulings.
• We need a fair-minded person to mediate the dispute.