make sense
Idioms-
Be understandable. This usage, first recorded in 1686, is often used in a negative context, as in This explanation doesn't make sense .
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Be reasonable, wise, or practical, as in It makes sense to find out first how many will attend the conference . This term employs sense in the meaning of “what is reasonable,” a usage dating from 1600. In Britain it is also put as stand to sense .
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"What a delight to stand and listen to somebody whose sentences make sense," she said.
From BBC ● Nov. 4, 2026
But they make sense in light of the contrast between economic and political uncertainty.
From MarketWatch ● Nov. 2, 2026
“After that, it would make sense in my view to pause and examine economic and financial developments to determine what further action may be appropriate,” she added.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 30, 2026
The party has long struggled to make sense of what it, and its voters, wants.
From Slate ● Oct. 27, 2026
He can speak clearly and make sense of what he hears.
From "Phineas Gage" by John Fleischman
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
