LEVEL Synonyms: 296 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'level' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of level are even , flat , plane , and smooth . While all these words mean "having a surface without bends, curves, or irregularities," level applies to a horizontal surface that lies on a line parallel with the horizon. // the vast prairies are nearly level

Q: When is it sensible to use 'even' instead of 'level'?

In some situations, the words even and level are roughly equivalent. However, even applies to a surface that is noticeably flat or level or to a line that is observably straight. // trim the hedge so it is even

Q: When might 'flat' be a better fit than 'level'?

The meanings of flat and level largely overlap; however, flat applies to a surface devoid of noticeable curvatures, prominences, or depressions. // the work surface must be flat

Q: When is 'plane' a more appropriate choice than 'level'?

The words plane and level are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, plane applies to any real or imaginary flat surface in which a straight line between any two points on it lies wholly within that surface. // the plane sides of a crystal

Q: When could 'smooth' be used to replace 'level'?

The synonyms smooth and level are sometimes interchangeable, but smooth applies especially to a polished surface free of irregularities. // a smooth skating rink

level 1 of 3

noun

ˈle-vəl

Definition of level next

as in position

the placement of someone or something in relation to others in a vertical arrangement a young karate student ready to rise to the next level in his chosen art of self-defense

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

level

2 of 3

verb

as in to balance

to make equal in amount, degree, or status we'll give both teams the same equipment so as to level the playing field

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

disequilibrate

as in to smooth

to make free from breaks, curves, or bumps the construction workers leveled the ground before laying a foundation for the new house

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as in to aim

to point or turn (something) toward a target or goal the marksman leveled his gun at the target and fired

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as in to down

to strike (someone) so forcefully as to cause a fall the boxer leveled his opponent with a single blow

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as in to demolish

to destroy (as a building) completely by knocking down or breaking to pieces an old warehouse that was leveled to build a parking lot

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level

3 of 3

adjective

as in plane

having a surface without bends, breaks, or irregularities looked for a level place to land the plane

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as in calm

free from emotional or mental agitation in a much more level mood now that the worst is over

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective level contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of level are even, flat, plane, and smooth. While all these words mean "having a surface without bends, curves, or irregularities," level applies to a horizontal surface that lies on a line parallel with the horizon.

the vast prairies are nearly level

When is it sensible to use even instead of level?

In some situations, the words even and level are roughly equivalent. However, even applies to a surface that is noticeably flat or level or to a line that is observably straight.

trim the hedge so it is even

When might flat be a better fit than level?

The meanings of flat and level largely overlap; however, flat applies to a surface devoid of noticeable curvatures, prominences, or depressions.

the work surface must be flat

When is plane a more appropriate choice than level?

The words plane and level are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, plane applies to any real or imaginary flat surface in which a straight line between any two points on it lies wholly within that surface.

the plane sides of a crystal

When could smooth be used to replace level?

The synonyms smooth and level are sometimes interchangeable, but smooth applies especially to a polished surface free of irregularities.

a smooth skating rink

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of level

Noun

McDaniel said that a few years ago the Minority Coaches Advancement Association counted the number of minority head coaches by hand at the more than 500 programs at every level of the sport. —

David Ubben, The Athletic, 18 Jan. 2025 They’re expected to stay above 2023 and 2024 levels until at least halfway through the year. —

Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 18 Jan. 2025

Verb

The Palisades and Eaton fires leveled communities populated by executives, producers, movie stars and below-the-line workers. —

Ryan Faughnder, Los Angeles Times, 14 Jan. 2025 Below is an overview of the accusations that have been leveled against Combs, as well as the answers to frequently asked questions about his cases. —

William Earl, Variety, 13 Jan. 2025

Adjective

The retractable foils and electric motor extend out when the C-8 reaches a speed of 16 knots and adjust in real-time to ensure a smooth, perfectly level flight even in choppy waters. —

Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 19 Aug. 2024 His advice for preventing bedroom falls included eliminating throw rugs, (which are common trip hazards), as well as maximizing lighting and minimizing glare, finishing surfaces in contrasting colors, making sure floors are level and minimizing entry thresholds. —

Jamie Gold, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for level

Recent Examples of Synonyms for level

Noun

Girma, after all, is widely viewed as the United States’ top defender and one of the country’s best young players regardless of position.

— Ryan Finley, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Jan. 2025
Ross was unsteady on his feet with his pants down around his thighs, turning and walking away from the officers’ position, according to the affidavit.

— Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 Jan. 2025