100 English Synonyms to Expand Your Vocabulary

 

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A synonym is a word with the same or a similar meaning as another word.

For example, the words big and large are synonyms. Buy and purchase are also synonyms – although we tend to use “buy” in a more informal context, and “purchase” in a more formal context.

Keep in mind that some synonyms in the list below might not be “perfect” synonyms – there may be slight differences in meaning and connotation. For example, the words smart and wise. Both of them mean “intelligent,” but the word wise also implies that the person has additional good judgement and deep perception about life.

Synonyms are often used in different collocations, too. For example, we can describe either a person or an idea as brilliant, but only a person can be astute.

Powerful, potent, and firm are synonyms for strong. A person with a strong voice can have a powerful voice, but not a potent voice. A strong alcoholic drink can be potent, but not firm.

If you’re not sure how to use the synonyms below – or if you want to see example sentences – check this dictionary and this sample sentence search!

English SynonymsSynonyms for SMART

  • bright
  • sharp
  • brilliant
  • astute
  • wise

Synonyms for STUPID

  • dumb
  • idiotic
  • dimwitted
  • slow
  • dense

Synonyms for ESSENTIAL

  • crucial
  • critical
  • vital
  • integral
  • indispensable

Synonyms for IRRELEVANT

  • inconsequential
  • useless
  • meaningless
  • trivial
  • insignificant

English SynonymsSynonyms for EXCELLENT

  • magnificent
  • phenomenal
  • top-notch
  • world-class
  • outstanding

Synonyms for ACCEPTABLE

  • fitting
  • suitable
  • satisfactory
  • adequate
  • appropriate

Synonyms for AWFUL

  • horrible
  • abominable
  • repulsive
  • despicable
  • atrocious

English SynonymsSynonyms for INTERESTING

  • captivating
  • enchanting
  • fascinating
  • enthralling
  • intriguing

Synonyms for BORING

  • dull
  • tiresome
  • mundane
  • humdrum
  • monotonous

English SynonymsSynonyms for UNCERTAIN

  • doubtful
  • questionable
  • dubious
  • far-fetched
  • unproven

Synonyms for NEW

  • modern
  • contemporary
  • up-to-date
  • novel
  • fresh

Synonyms for OLD

  • English Synonymsoutdated
  • antiquated
  • obsolete
  • archaic
  • old-fashioned

Synonyms for EASY

  • simple
  • child’s play
  • straightforward
  • effortless
  • uncomplicated

English SynonymsSynonyms for DIFFICULT

  • challenging
  • daunting
  • taxing
  • tough
  • tricky

Synonyms for STRONG

  • powerful
  • intense
  • firm
  • solid
  • potent

Synonyms for WEAK

  • frail
  • feeble
  • shaky
  • flimsy
  • fragile

English SynonymsSynonyms for HUGE

  • colossal
  • gigantic
  • astronomical
  • immense
  • gargantuan

Synonyms for TINY

  • minuscule
  • itsy-bitsy
  • microscopic
  • dinky
  • minute

English SynonymsSynonyms for MANY

  • copious
  • abundant
  • numerous
  • ample
  • bountiful

Synonyms for BIT

  • smidgen
  • dash
  • iota
  • pinch
  • shred

Synonyms for EXCESS

  • glut
  • plethora
  • wealth
  • surplus
  • overabundance

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