Plausible
adjective /ˈplɔːzɪbəl/ — Sounding reasonable — could be true.
Definition
Seeming reasonable or probable; appearing worthy of acceptance or belief.
Beyond the definition
Plausible sits between 'possible' and 'proven'. A plausible explanation is one that could hold up — it fits the facts without being certain. It's a word for careful thinkers who don't claim more certainty than they have.
Origin & history
From Latin plausibilis — deserving applause, from plaudere 'to clap, applaud'. Originally meant 'seeming worthy of approval'.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
Her explanation was plausible, but I'd want to see the data before accepting it.
The most plausible interpretation is that the delay was accidental, not deliberate.
A conspiracy theory needs to be at least plausible to gain traction.
How to use it
This entry uses an adjective. Follow the examples for the nouns it describes and its position in the sentence.
Choose “Plausible” when the meaning fits your context: Seeming reasonable or probable; appearing worthy of acceptance or belief.
Synonyms
believable, credible, reasonable, likely, convincing
Antonyms
implausible, unlikely, far-fetched
Related words
Word in the Wild
See how this word appears in life, language and stories.
Illustrative sentences and imagined stories for learning — not verified sightings, interviews, or sourced quotations.
Fictional scene
Carefully Considered Architectural Plan
An adult and colleagues look over a structural model, their interaction suggesting a well-aimed and reasonable approach to their task.
The focus on a clear, geometric structure in the model makes the team's project appear plausible. The measured tone of their meeting suggests the plan is not reckless, but carefully considered, making it seem worthy of acceptance and belief by the observers.
Image credit: Wordspun · AI-generated conceptual illustration
Questions about this word
What does "Plausible" mean?
Plausible is adjective meaning: Sounding reasonable — could be true.. Seeming reasonable or probable; appearing worthy of acceptance or belief.
Where does the word "Plausible" come from?
From Latin plausibilis — deserving applause, from plaudere 'to clap, applaud'. Originally meant 'seeming worthy of approval'.