Definition

Showing good judgment and practical thinking that most people would agree with.

Example

It was a commonsensical decision to wear a coat on a cold day.

Conversation

I think it's pretty commonsensical to wear a jacket when it's cold outside.

Absolutely! It just makes sense to stay warm.

Right? I don’t understand why some people don't do it.

Maybe they just don't think it's that important.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Commonsensical → It is formed from "common" (from Old French *comun*, meaning shared by all) and "sensical" (from "sense" which comes from Latin *sensus*, meaning perception or feeling, combined with the suffix "-ical" meaning pertaining to). The word "commonsensical" refers to something that pertains to shared perception or practical judgment that is generally accepted by people.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'shared by all' ('common') and relates to 'perception' ('sensus') — that's why commonsensical means something that is based on common sense.

Visually Confused Words