6 September 2026 Expression of the Week

That makes sense.

“That makes sense” is a very common expression in everyday English. We use it when we understand someone's explanation and think it is logical or reasonable.

It can mean:
“I understand.”
“I can understand why.”

Example
A: “The file isn't here because I saved it in a different folder.”
B: “Oh, that makes sense.”

When Do People Use It?

You can use “That makes sense” when:

• someone explains a reason

• someone gives you new information

• something confusing becomes clear

• you understand why something happened

“Now it makes sense”

We use “Now it makes sense” when we understand something that was confusing before.

Example: “Oh, the dates are in American format. Now it makes sense.”

Important Note

“That makes sense” does not always mean “I agree.”

It usually means: “I understand your reasoning.”

For example:
A: “I'm going to take the train because parking is very expensive.”
B: “That makes sense.”

Here, B is showing that they understand the reason. They may also agree with it.

Similar Expressions

You can also say:

• “I see.” – very common and neutral

• “I get it.” – informal and very common

• “Got it.” – informal; means “I understand”

• “That explains it.” – the new information explains something

Learner's Tip

When someone gives you an explanation, “That makes sense” is a natural way to show that you understand. Think:
“I understand. That seems logical.”

From the US TV series, Mythic Quest

From the Canadian TV series, Schitt's Creek

From the US TV series, Superstore

From the UK movie, The Full Monty

From the US TV series, Jack Ryan

"Now it makes sense". From the US TV series, Modern Family