C1 Expression Neutre 4 min de lecture

It makes sense that

Hedging expression to soften claims

En 15 secondes

  • States that something is logical or expected.
  • Softens opinions and conclusions.
  • Works in most casual and professional settings.
  • Shows understanding and reasoning.

Signification

Cette expression est une manière astucieuse de dire que quelque chose est logique ou attendu sans paraître trop agressif. Elle vous aide à introduire une conclusion ou une opinion en la faisant passer pour du bon sens.

Exemples clés

3 sur 12
1

Texting a friend about a movie

You said the plot twist was predictable? It makes sense that you guessed it early on.

You said the plot twist was predictable? It makes sense that you guessed it early on.

2

At a café ordering coffee

The barista said they're out of oat milk. It makes sense that they'd run out on a busy Saturday morning.

The barista said they're out of oat milk. It makes sense that they'd run out on a busy Saturday morning.

3

Job interview on Zoom

The interviewer mentioned the company is expanding rapidly. It makes sense that they're looking for motivated individuals to join the team.

The interviewer mentioned the company is expanding rapidly. It makes sense that they're looking for motivated individuals to join the team.

🌍

Contexte culturel

The phrase `It makes sense that...` likely emerged as English speakers developed more nuanced ways to express agreement and logical deduction. It reflects a cultural value placed on rationality and clear reasoning. Instead of blunt assertions, this phrase allows for a softer, more considerate way to acknowledge logical connections. It's part of a broader trend towards politeness and indirect communication in modern English.

💡

The Power of Context

Remember, 'It makes sense that...' needs a reason! Always make sure there's a logical link between what happened and your statement. Don't just say 'It makes sense that she's happy' out of the blue – add *why*!

⚠️

Avoid Sarcasm Traps!

While it *can* be used sarcastically, be careful. Saying 'It makes sense that you failed' when someone clearly tried hard can sound really mean. Stick to genuine logic unless you're sure your tone is understood.

En 15 secondes

  • States that something is logical or expected.
  • Softens opinions and conclusions.
  • Works in most casual and professional settings.
  • Shows understanding and reasoning.

What It Means

This phrase is your go-to for showing that something is logical. You're basically saying, 'Yep, that's expected!' It signals that a situation or outcome is perfectly understandable. It’s like you’re nodding along with reality. It adds a layer of calm reasoning. It makes your point seem less like a personal opinion. It feels more like a shared, obvious conclusion. It’s super useful for sounding thoughtful.

How To Use It

Use it to introduce a logical conclusion. You can use it after hearing some news. Or after observing a situation. It precedes a statement that explains why something is logical. For example, 'She's always studying. It makes sense that she aced the exam.' You can also use it to agree with someone's assessment. 'He said the traffic was bad? It makes sense that he's late.' It's a versatile connector phrase.

Formality & Register

This phrase is pretty flexible. It works in most situations. You can use it with friends. You can also use it in a work meeting. It’s not overly casual. It’s also not stiffly formal. Think of it as a 'safe bet' phrase. It bridges the gap between casual chat and professional discussion. It’s like the friendly handshake of expressions. It rarely feels out of place. Just avoid super-formal academic papers.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine your friend is exhausted. You might say, 'You stayed up all night gaming? It makes sense that you're tired.' Or, if your favorite cafe is suddenly closed, 'They're renovating? It makes sense that it's shut.' On a work call, 'The client requested more data. It makes sense that the project timeline is extended.' You see? It fits everywhere.

When To Use It

Use it when you want to sound reasonable. When you want to show understanding. When you want to validate an observation. It’s perfect for explaining why something happened. It's great for agreeing with a logical point. Use it when you want to soften a potentially strong statement. It helps you sound less confrontational. It’s also good for connecting cause and effect. It’s like saying, 'This outcome follows logically from that cause.'

When NOT To Use It

Avoid it if you want to sound highly authoritative. Or if you need to express a strong, unsupported personal belief. Don't use it if the situation is genuinely surprising. Saying It makes sense that... implies predictability. If something is truly shocking, this phrase feels off. Also, avoid it in very formal legal or scientific contexts. Unless you're describing a known principle. It can sound a bit too colloquial there. Don't use it if you're trying to be dramatic. It’s a calming phrase, not an exciting one.

Common Mistakes

Sometimes people use it when something *doesn't* make sense. This is a classic mix-up! Another error is using it with overly emotional or irrational statements. For example, 'He's angry because you looked at him funny? It makes sense that he’s furious.' This sounds sarcastic or dismissive. The phrase implies logic, not just any reaction. You need a clear reason for the outcome.

It makes sense that she cried. It makes sense that she was upset.
He's late. It makes sense that he's angry. It makes sense that he's annoyed.

Common Variations

In the UK, you might hear That stands to reason. It's a bit more traditional. In Australia, Fair dinkum can sometimes convey a similar sense of obviousness, though it's broader. Younger speakers might just say Makes sense. This is shorter and punchier, perfect for texting. Totally makes sense adds emphasis. Obviously is another related term, but can sometimes sound a little blunt. That figures is quite informal and often implies resignation.

Real Conversations

Friend 1: My phone battery dies so fast now.

Friend 2: You haven't replaced it in three years? It makes sense that it's not holding a charge.

Colleague 1: I can't believe the project deadline was moved up.

Colleague 2: They just hired two new team members. It makes sense that they want to accelerate things.

M

Mom

Did you finish your homework?
K

Kid

Almost! I was helping Grandma with her garden for an hour.
M

Mom

It makes sense that it took you longer.

Quick FAQ

Is it always polite?

Yes, generally it is. It shows you're considering the logic.

Does it mean I agree?

Not necessarily. It means you see the logic, not that you endorse the action.

Can it be sarcastic?

Yes, tone of voice is key! It *can* be sarcastic, but usually isn't.

Is it formal?

It's quite neutral, leaning slightly informal but acceptable in many professional settings.

Notes d'usage

This phrase is highly versatile, fitting comfortably in most conversational and professional contexts. While generally neutral, overuse in very formal writing might seem slightly informal. Be mindful of tone; it can imply obviousness or even sarcasm if delivered with the wrong inflection.

💡

The Power of Context

Remember, 'It makes sense that...' needs a reason! Always make sure there's a logical link between what happened and your statement. Don't just say 'It makes sense that she's happy' out of the blue – add *why*!

⚠️

Avoid Sarcasm Traps!

While it *can* be used sarcastically, be careful. Saying 'It makes sense that you failed' when someone clearly tried hard can sound really mean. Stick to genuine logic unless you're sure your tone is understood.

🎯

Sound Like a Native

Shorten it! In casual chats or texts, dropping the 'It' and just saying 'Makes sense' or 'Totally makes sense' is super common and sounds very natural.

💬

The Politeness Principle

This phrase is a gem for politeness in English. It allows you to state a logical conclusion without sounding like you're stating the obvious or criticizing someone. It's all about showing you understand the reasoning behind a situation.

Exemples

12
#1 Texting a friend about a movie

You said the plot twist was predictable? It makes sense that you guessed it early on.

You said the plot twist was predictable? It makes sense that you guessed it early on.

This shows understanding of why the friend guessed the twist.

#2 At a café ordering coffee

The barista said they're out of oat milk. It makes sense that they'd run out on a busy Saturday morning.

The barista said they're out of oat milk. It makes sense that they'd run out on a busy Saturday morning.

Explains the logical reason for the oat milk shortage.

#3 Job interview on Zoom

The interviewer mentioned the company is expanding rapidly. It makes sense that they're looking for motivated individuals to join the team.

The interviewer mentioned the company is expanding rapidly. It makes sense that they're looking for motivated individuals to join the team.

Connects company growth to the need for new hires logically.

#4 Instagram caption for a travel photo

Woke up at 4 AM for this sunrise! It makes sense that the view was absolutely breathtaking.

Woke up at 4 AM for this sunrise! It makes sense that the view was absolutely breathtaking.

Justifies the early wake-up by the logical reward of a beautiful view.

#5 Discussing a TV show plot

He betrayed his best friend? It makes sense that he's the villain; they always do that in these shows!

He betrayed his best friend? It makes sense that he's the villain; they always do that in these shows!

Uses the phrase to point out a common trope, adding a humorous touch.

#6 Responding to bad news

She failed the exam after missing classes? It makes sense that she didn't pass.

She failed the exam after missing classes? It makes sense that she didn't pass.

Expresses empathy and understanding of the logical consequence.

#7 Email to a colleague

Given the recent budget cuts, it makes sense that we need to re-evaluate our Q3 spending.

Given the recent budget cuts, it makes sense that we need to re-evaluate our Q3 spending.

Provides a logical justification for the proposed action in a professional context.

#8 WhatsApp message

It makes sense that you're tired after running a marathon.

It makes sense that you're tired after running a marathon.

Simple, direct, and friendly way to acknowledge a logical outcome.

Common Learner Error Erreur fréquente

✗ It makes sense that she was angry because you were late. → ✓ It makes sense that she was annoyed because you were late.

✗ It makes sense that she was angry because you were late. → ✓ It makes sense that she was annoyed because you were late.

Using 'angry' might be too strong; 'annoyed' is a more logical, less intense reaction to simple lateness.

Common Learner Error Erreur fréquente

✗ It makes sense that the cake was delicious. → ✓ It makes sense that the cake was delicious.

✗ It makes sense that the cake was delicious. → ✓ It makes sense that the cake was delicious.

This sentence lacks a preceding reason. The phrase needs context to explain *why* it makes sense.

#11 Talking about a game

They nerfed my favorite character? It makes sense that the player base was complaining.

They nerfed my favorite character? It makes sense that the player base was complaining.

Connects the game developers' decision to player feedback.

#12 Discussing a difficult decision

You decided to move closer to your family? It makes sense that you'd prioritize that.

You decided to move closer to your family? It makes sense that you'd prioritize that.

Shows understanding and validation of a personal choice based on logical priorities.

Teste-toi

Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : it makes sense that

This phrase logically connects the action (studying all night) to the outcome (passing the test).

Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly.

Which sentence correctly uses 'It makes sense that'?

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : He said the train was delayed, so it makes sense that he arrived late.

The correct sentence provides a reason (train delay) for the logical outcome (arriving late).

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

The original sentence is grammatically correct, but lacks context. The phrase 'It makes sense that...' requires a preceding clause or situation to explain *why* it makes sense. For example: 'The sun is shining brightly, so it makes sense that the cat is sleeping on the warm laptop.' The exercise aims to highlight the need for context.

Complete the sentence with the appropriate phrase.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : it makes sense that

This shows a logical connection between dedicated practice and winning a competition.

Select the sentence where 'It makes sense that' is used most appropriately.

Which sentence best demonstrates the intended use of 'It makes sense that'?

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Given the heavy rain all morning, it makes sense that the outdoor concert was cancelled.

This option provides clear context (heavy rain) that logically leads to the outcome (concert cancellation), making the phrase appropriate.

Identify and correct the misuse of the phrase.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

While missing a flight is frustrating, 'furious' might be an overstatement. 'Upset' or 'annoyed' are more logical and common reactions, making the phrase fit better.

Translate the sentence into English.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

This translates the French 'Il est logique que' directly to the English 'It makes sense that'.

Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

This is the base structure of the phrase. It's often followed by a clause explaining the logical outcome.

Complete the sentence using the target phrase.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : it makes sense that

The phrase logically connects her experience to the job offer.

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

This sentence is grammatically correct but lacks context. The phrase 'It makes sense that...' requires a preceding reason. For example: 'She just got promoted, so it makes sense that she is happy.' The exercise highlights the need for context.

Translate the sentence into English.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

This translates the Spanish phrase, showing how 'It makes sense that' is used to explain logical occurrences.

Arrange the words to form a coherent sentence using the target phrase.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

This sentence needs restructuring. The correct order should be: 'It makes sense that he was late because the traffic was bad.' The provided words are jumbled to test understanding of sentence structure.

🎉 Score : /12

Aides visuelles

Formality Spectrum for 'It makes sense that'

Very Informal

Used in quick texts or casual chats, often shortened.

Yeah, makes sense.

Informal

Standard usage in everyday conversation with friends or colleagues.

It makes sense that you're tired after the hike.

Neutral/Professional

Appropriate for most work emails, meetings, and polite discussions.

It makes sense that we need to adjust the budget.

Formal

Generally avoided in highly formal writing or speeches.

Given these factors, it makes sense that...

When 'It makes sense that' Fits In

Logical Connections
🧑‍🤝‍🧑

Explaining a friend's actions

You stayed up late? It makes sense that you're sleepy.

💼

Workplace discussions

It makes sense that the deadline is tight.

📈

Commenting on news/events

It makes sense that the stock market dropped.

Online reviews/feedback

It makes sense that the food was delicious.

❄️

Describing natural phenomena

It makes sense that it's cold in winter.

🎭

Understanding character motivations

It makes sense that he felt betrayed.

Comparing 'It makes sense that' with Similar Phrases

It makes sense that
Core meaning Establishes logical connection; neutral tone.
Usage Explaining why something is expected or understandable.
Vibe Reasonable, calm, agreeable.
Obviously
Core meaning States something is clear or evident; can sound blunt.
Usage When the conclusion is extremely clear or self-evident.
Vibe Direct, sometimes condescending.
That figures
Core meaning Implies predictability, often with resignation or slight cynicism.
Usage When something happens as expected, especially if it's slightly negative or unsurprising.
Vibe Resigned, unsurprised, informal.

Usage Categories for 'It makes sense that'

➡️

Explaining Outcomes

  • Why someone is tired
  • Why a project is delayed
  • Why a product is popular

Validating Observations

  • The traffic is bad
  • The food is expensive
  • The plan worked
☁️

Softening Statements

  • It makes sense that you disagree.
  • It makes sense that this is difficult.
  • It makes sense that they need more time.
💬

Informal Chat

  • Makes sense!
  • Yeah, that makes sense.
  • Totally makes sense.

Banque d exercices

12 exercices
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase. Fill Blank beginner

You studied all night for the test, so ___ ___ ___ ___ you passed.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : it makes sense that

This phrase logically connects the action (studying all night) to the outcome (passing the test).

Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly. Choose intermediate

Which sentence correctly uses 'It makes sense that'?

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : He said the train was delayed, so it makes sense that he arrived late.

The correct sentence provides a reason (train delay) for the logical outcome (arriving late).

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix intermediate

Trouvez et corrigez l erreur :

It makes sense that the cat is sleeping on the warm laptop.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : It makes sense that the cat is sleeping on the warm laptop.

The original sentence is grammatically correct, but lacks context. The phrase 'It makes sense that...' requires a preceding clause or situation to explain *why* it makes sense. For example: 'The sun is shining brightly, so it makes sense that the cat is sleeping on the warm laptop.' The exercise aims to highlight the need for context.

Complete the sentence with the appropriate phrase. Fill Blank intermediate

She practiced piano for hours every day; ___ ___ ___ ___ she won the competition.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : it makes sense that

This shows a logical connection between dedicated practice and winning a competition.

Select the sentence where 'It makes sense that' is used most appropriately. Choose advanced

Which sentence best demonstrates the intended use of 'It makes sense that'?

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : Given the heavy rain all morning, it makes sense that the outdoor concert was cancelled.

This option provides clear context (heavy rain) that logically leads to the outcome (concert cancellation), making the phrase appropriate.

Identify and correct the misuse of the phrase. Error Fix advanced

Trouvez et corrigez l erreur :

He missed his flight, so it makes sense that he is furious.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : He missed his flight, so it makes sense that he is upset.

While missing a flight is frustrating, 'furious' might be an overstatement. 'Upset' or 'annoyed' are more logical and common reactions, making the phrase fit better.

Translate the sentence into English. Traduire beginner

Il est logique qu'il soit fatigué.

Indices : Think about the English phrase for 'logical'., Remember the structure 'It makes sense that...'

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : It makes sense that he is tired.

This translates the French 'Il est logique que' directly to the English 'It makes sense that'.

Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence. Reorder intermediate

Arrangez les mots dans le bon ordre :

Cliquez sur les mots ci-dessus pour construire la phrase

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : It makes sense that

This is the base structure of the phrase. It's often followed by a clause explaining the logical outcome.

Complete the sentence using the target phrase. Fill Blank advanced

Given her extensive experience in marketing, ___ ___ ___ ___ she was offered the senior role.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : it makes sense that

The phrase logically connects her experience to the job offer.

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix beginner

Trouvez et corrigez l erreur :

It makes sense that she is happy.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : It makes sense that she is happy.

This sentence is grammatically correct but lacks context. The phrase 'It makes sense that...' requires a preceding reason. For example: 'She just got promoted, so it makes sense that she is happy.' The exercise highlights the need for context.

Translate the sentence into English. Traduire intermediate

Es lógico que haya tanto tráfico.

Indices : Consider the Spanish 'Es lógico que'., Translate 'tanto tráfico' and the verb 'haya'.

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : It makes sense that there is so much traffic.

This translates the Spanish phrase, showing how 'It makes sense that' is used to explain logical occurrences.

Arrange the words to form a coherent sentence using the target phrase. Reorder advanced

Arrangez les mots dans le bon ordre :

Cliquez sur les mots ci-dessus pour construire la phrase

✓ Correct ! ✗ Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte : It makes sense that the traffic was he late.

This sentence needs restructuring. The correct order should be: 'It makes sense that he was late because the traffic was bad.' The provided words are jumbled to test understanding of sentence structure.

🎉 Score : /12

Questions fréquentes

20 questions

It means that something is logical, expected, or understandable given the circumstances. You're essentially pointing out that an outcome or situation follows logically from a cause or context. It's a way to acknowledge rationality without being overly assertive.

It's quite versatile and falls into the neutral category. You can comfortably use it in most everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. It's also perfectly acceptable in many professional settings, like emails or team meetings, because it sounds reasonable.

Yes, absolutely! It's great for showing you understand the company's situation or the role's requirements. For example, you could say, 'It makes sense that you're looking for someone with strong project management skills given the company's growth.'

'It makes sense that' focuses on the logical connection between a cause and effect, often implying understanding. 'Obviously' states that something is self-evident or clear, and can sometimes sound a bit blunt or even condescending if used carelessly.

Definitely! In casual conversation or texting, people often shorten it to 'Makes sense' or 'Totally makes sense.' You might also hear just 'That makes sense.' These shorter versions are very common and sound natural in informal contexts.

Avoid it if you need to express a strong, unsupported personal opinion, or in highly formal academic or legal documents where precision is paramount. It can also sound odd if the situation is genuinely surprising or completely illogical.

Yes, it can definitely be used sarcastically, depending heavily on your tone of voice and the context. For instance, if someone does something foolish and you say, 'Oh yeah, it *makes sense* that you did that,' it implies the opposite – that it doesn't make sense at all.

'That figures' is a more informal expression. It implies that something happened exactly as you expected, often with a sense of resignation or slight cynicism. It's similar to 'That's typical' or 'Of course that would happen.'

Not necessarily. It means you understand the *logic* behind the situation or outcome. You recognize why it happened or why it's expected. You might understand the logic without personally agreeing with the action or situation itself.

For texting, you'd typically use the shorter version. If a friend tells you they failed a test after not studying, you could reply: 'Ah, makes sense.' Or if they say they're exhausted after a party: 'Totally makes sense.'

A common mistake is using it without providing any context or reason. The phrase implies a logical connection, so saying 'It makes sense that she is happy' on its own is weak. You need to add *why* it makes sense, like 'It makes sense that she is happy *because she got the promotion*.'

While the phrase itself is standard, variations exist. In British English, 'That stands to reason' is a more traditional equivalent. Younger speakers often use the shortened 'Makes sense' universally. Regional slang might offer other ways to express predictability.

Yes, it can be used for future events if they seem logically predictable based on current information. For example, 'Given the weather forecast, it makes sense that the picnic might be cancelled.'

The emotional weight is generally neutral or slightly positive, conveying understanding and reasonableness. It lacks strong emotion, making it suitable for objective explanations. It can lean negative if used sarcastically, but its default is calm logic.

'That's logical' is a more direct statement affirming the logic. 'It makes sense that...' is often used to introduce the logical conclusion or explanation, making it slightly softer and more explanatory in function.

Yes, 'It is sensible that...' is grammatically correct and similar in meaning, but 'It makes sense that...' is far more common and natural-sounding in everyday English. 'Sensible' often implies practicality or good judgment, whereas 'makes sense' is broader about logical coherence.

If something doesn't follow logically, you would use the opposite: 'It *doesn't* make sense that...' For example, 'He quit his job right before the holidays? It doesn't make sense that he would do that.'

Try describing everyday situations. Look at a news headline and say, 'It makes sense that...' followed by your logical explanation. Text a friend about something that happened and use the phrase to show you understand why.

It's appropriate if there's a clear reason for her sadness that you're acknowledging. For example, 'Her dog ran away, so it makes sense that she is sad.' Without the reason, it might sound dismissive or like you're stating the obvious.

It can be used cautiously in academic writing, especially in fields that discuss behaviors or trends. However, more formal alternatives like 'This suggests that...', 'Consequently...', or 'It is logical to conclude that...' are often preferred for a higher level of formality.

Expressions liées

😊

That figures

informal version

Expresses that something is expected or predictable, often with resignation.

While both indicate predictability, 'That figures' carries a more informal, often resigned or slightly cynical tone compared to the neutral logic of 'It makes sense that.'

🔄

Obviously

synonym

Used to state something that is clear or evident.

'Obviously' is a direct way to state clarity, whereas 'It makes sense that' explains the logical reasoning behind the clarity.

👔

That stands to reason

formal version

A more formal or traditional way to say something is logical or expected.

This phrase conveys the same logical conclusion but sounds more formal and slightly dated compared to the common, neutral 'It makes sense that.'

🔗

It's logical that

related topic

Directly states that something follows the rules of logic.

This phrase is very similar but 'It makes sense that' is more common in everyday speech for explaining predictability or understanding.

🔗

I see why

related topic

Expresses understanding of someone's reasons or motivations.

While 'I see why' focuses on understanding reasons, 'It makes sense that' focuses on the logical outcome or predictability of a situation.

🔄

No wonder

synonym

Used to say that something is not surprising because of a known reason.

'No wonder' is an exclamation that something is unsurprising due to a cause, similar to 'It makes sense that' but more emphatic.

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