DictionaryreasonableFair and sensible
adjective

reasonable

REE-zuh-nuh-bul/ˈriːznəbl/

Fair and sensible rather than excessive or extreme.

The neighbors agree on a reasonable division of the bags according to their weight.

Two neighbors sensibly share the task of carrying groceries: an older man takes a small, light bag while a younger woman takes a larger bag, and both agree comfortably to the practical arrangement.
Etymology

Built on the idea of understanding, reasonable first described someone endowed with reason or sound judgment. It then described what results from good judgment, leading to the sense of fair, sensible, and within common-sense bounds.

In context

The Explainer Office7:24
If the request is well supported and reasonable, it's more likely to be approved.
What Is a Continuance (and When Can You Ask)?

More examples

  • The restaurant serves good food at reasonable prices.
  • Asking for a receipt is a reasonable request.
  • Try to be reasonable when the children make mistakes.

Forms

reasonable · more reasonable · most reasonable

reasonably adverb — In a fair or sensible way.

reasonableness noun — The quality of being fair and sensible.

Similar words

fair
Emphasizes treating people equally rather than showing practical judgment.
sensible
Emphasizes practical good judgment rather than fairness or moderation.
moderate
Emphasizes avoiding extremes in amount, degree, or behavior.