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sensato

sen-SAH-toh/senˈsato/

“sensato” means “sensible” in Spanish (having or showing good judgment).

sensible, reasonable

Also: level-headed, wise
A child wearing a yellow raincoat and boots holding an umbrella while standing next to a puddle.

📝 In Action

Juan es un chico muy sensato para su edad.

A2

Juan is a very sensible boy for his age.

Me parece una decisión sensata no gastar todo el dinero.

B1

It seems like a sensible decision not to spend all the money.

Lo más sensato sería hablar con ella antes de actuar.

B2

The most reasonable thing would be to talk to her before acting.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • razonable (reasonable)
  • juicioso (judicious/wise)
  • cuerdo (sane/level-headed)

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • una decisión sensata – a sensible decision
  • una persona sensata – a sensible person
  • lo más sensato – the most sensible thing

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "sensato" in Spanish:

level-headed→reasonable→sensible→wise→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: sensato

Question 1 of 3

If you want to say your friend is very 'sensitive' and cries easily, should you use 'sensato'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
sensatez(common sense/good judgment) — Noun
insensato(foolish/reckless) — Adjective
insensatez(foolishness/recklessness) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

From the Latin word 'sensatus', which describes someone gifted with 'sensus' (sense or understanding).

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

Italian: sensatoPortuguese: sensato

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does 'sensato' mean the same as 'sensible'?

In English, yes. In Spanish, no. This is a famous 'false friend.' In Spanish, 'sensato' means 'sensible' (logical/wise), while 'sensible' means 'sensitive' (emotional/easily affected).

Can I use 'sensato' for objects?

Usually, 'sensato' describes people or their actions/decisions. You wouldn't describe a chair as 'sensata,' but you could describe a 'plan' or an 'idea' as sensata.

Is it a formal word?

It's slightly more polished than just saying 'bueno' (good), but it's very common in everyday conversation. It’s perfect for workplace reviews or talking about friends.