Translation guide
The English word 'sensible' describes people, decisions, or things that show good judgment and practicality. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you mean a person's character, a practical choice, or reasonable behavior.
Describing someone who makes good, practical decisions and doesn't act rashly.
Literally 'has discernment'. Used for someone who shows good judgment and common sense.
彼は分別があるから、そんな無茶はしないよ。
He's sensible, so he wouldn't do anything that reckless.
Means 'has good sense/sound judgment'. Often used for socially responsible behavior.
良識のある人なら、そんなことは言わない。
A sensible person wouldn't say something like that.
Literally 'has common sense'. Implies practical, everyday wisdom.
彼女は常識があるから、ちゃんと時間を守る。
She's sensible, so she's always punctual.
Means 'solid, steady, reliable'. Often used for a person's character or financial decisions.
彼は堅実な人だから、無駄遣いはしない。
He's a sensible person, so he doesn't waste money.
Describing an action or choice that is practical and well-judged.
Means 'wise, sensible'. Commonly used for decisions or choices.
それは賢明な判断だと思います。
I think that's a sensible decision.
Adjectival form of 'having discernment'. Used for actions showing good judgment.
分別のある行動をとってください。
Please act in a sensible manner.
Means 'reasonable, appropriate'. Often used in formal contexts for a sensible solution or price.
それは妥当な選択だ。
That's a sensible choice.
Describing objects or ideas that are practical and not overly fancy or extreme.
Means 'practical, functional'. Used for clothes, cars, etc.
もっと実用的な靴を買ったほうがいいよ。
You should buy more sensible shoes.
Means 'plain, subdued'. Can imply sensible and not flashy, but may sound slightly negative.
彼女はいつも地味な服を着ている。
She always wears sensible clothes.
Telling someone to act reasonably or stop being foolish.
Literally 'think with common sense'. Used to appeal to someone's reason.
常識的に考えて、それは無理だよ。
Be sensible, that's impossible.
A direct command meaning 'have some sense'. Can sound harsh.
分別を持て！何を考えているんだ。
Be sensible! What are you thinking?
The English word 'sensible' is often confused with 'sensitive' by Japanese learners. 'Sensitive' in Japanese is 敏感 (びんかん) or 繊細 (せんさい). Do not use 敏感 for 'sensible'.