tangible
Clear and definite; real and concrete rather than abstract.
Examples
In a meeting
“We need tangible results to justify continued investment.”
Over coffee
“I want tangible progress, not just more planning.”
Why this word
concrete
Tangible emphasizes being physically touchable or clearly measurable, while concrete more broadly means specific and definite
real
Tangible specifically means perceptible to senses or clearly measurable, while real just means actually existing vs. imaginary
physical
Tangible can include measurable non-physical results (like tangible benefits), while physical strictly means material substance
Usage tip
Originally meant 'touchable'. Now used for anything concrete and measurable vs. abstract and vague.
Etymology
Latin tangibilis — tangere (to touch)
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Related words
benchmark
A standard or point of reference for measuring or comparing performance.
evaluate
To assess or judge the value, quality, or significance of something.
perpetual
Never ending or changing; occurring continuously.
ample
More than enough; plentiful and sufficient.
negligible
So small or unimportant as to not be worth considering.
excessive
More than what is necessary, normal, or desirable; too much.