These two adjectives are almost the same, but practicable has a narrower meaning than practical.
Practicable describes anything (such as a plan, a theory, a method, or a suggestion) that can be put into practice. Something practicable is something that can be done without too much difficulty.
Practical can also mean “easy to put into practice (to do)” or “do-able.” However, it also has other uses, describing things related to or concerned with action, and the results of actions:
Sleeping late is not a practical idea when you have children. (easy to do)
That is a practical book; it’s all about fixing things in your house. (related to action)
James had a great idea, but it was a practical failure; it just didn’t work. (in action, it failed)
Finally, there is also the noun, practical; a practical is a kind of examination that tests skills in action, rather than knowledge.
More Examples of “Practicable” in a Sentence
- Sometimes it’s not practicable for sponsors to obtain informed consent when conducting clinical investigations.
- Water will also be available for refills to avoid plastic bottle usage where practicable.
- Planting trees is by far the least expensive and most practicable way available at present to do this.
- To be practicable, this will require additional subsidies for less advantaged California residents who already can barely pay their rents.
- All that is needed are three sensible and practicable financial revolutions.
More Examples of “Practical” in a Sentence
- I think she was the most practical, efficient and organized person I have known.
- This is an essential seminar for managers and leaders looking for a practical definition of big society and how it will work within local government.
- It’s a partial but positive and practical answer to the conundrum of English devolution”.
- It’s hardly the practical choice, but then this car is about everything except practicality.
- As a practical matter of giving thanks, why not point to the pitcher?