Synonym Chooser

How is the word amuse different from other verbs like it?

The words divert and entertain are common synonyms of amuse. While all three words mean "to pass or cause to pass the time pleasantly," amuse suggests that one's attention is engaged lightly.

amuse yourselves while I make dinner

When might divert be a better fit than amuse?

While in some cases nearly identical to amuse, divert implies distracting attention from worry or routine occupation especially by something funny.

a light comedy to divert the tired businessman

Where would entertain be a reasonable alternative to amuse?

The words entertain and amuse are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, entertain suggests supplying amusement by specially contrived methods.

a magician entertaining children at a party

Example 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 amuse An English bulldog has developed an unusual nightly habit that continues to amuse her human family. Jason D. Greenblatt, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Apr. 2025 Ali grew up in college gyms and on bus rides, the son of volleyball royalty who amused himself by drawing plays in the sand. Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 30 Mar. 2025 This [strategy] is one thing that really amused me to learn. Harrison Jacobs, ARTnews.com, 24 Mar. 2025 Fleury, of course, wasn’t amused by getting beaten by Malkin. Josh Yohe, The Athletic, 10 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for amuse

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Cite this Entry

“Amuse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/amuse. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on amuse

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