Synonym Chooser

How is the word environment distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of environment are background, milieu, mise-en-scène, and setting. While all these words mean "the place, time, and circumstances in which something occurs," environment applies to all the external factors that have a formative influence on one's physical, mental, or moral development.

the kind of environment that produces juvenile delinquents

When is it sensible to use background instead of environment?

The meanings of background and environment largely overlap; however, background often refers to the circumstances or events that precede a phenomenon or development.

the shocking decision was part of the background of the riots

When is milieu a more appropriate choice than environment?

In some situations, the words milieu and environment are roughly equivalent. However, milieu applies especially to the physical and social surroundings of a person or group of persons.

an intellectual milieu conducive to artistic experimentation

When might mise-en-scène be a better fit than environment?

While in some cases nearly identical to environment, mise-en-scène strongly suggests the use of properties to achieve a particular atmosphere or theatrical effect.

a gothic thriller with a carefully crafted mise-en-scène

When could setting be used to replace environment?

While the synonyms setting and environment are close in meaning, setting suggests looking at real-life situations in literary or dramatic terms.

a militant reformer who was born into an unlikely social setting

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 environment However, devices cannot replace a vibrant, engaging classroom environment facilitated by a teacher. arkansasonline.com, 17 Mar. 2025 Whoever sells the most wins a car; whoever sells the least is out of a job – a ruthless environment where each character will do anything to come out on top. Greg Evans, Deadline, 17 Mar. 2025 Context: Climate change is altering the environment in which severe thunderstorms and tornadoes form. Andrew Freedman, Axios, 17 Mar. 2025 Sustainable Materials Fabrics like organic cotton, linen, and bamboo are increasingly gaining popularity as eco-conscious buyers look to outfit their beds in materials that are not only better for the environment but also more comfortable and breathable too, says Dylag. Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for environment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for environment
Noun
  • Its long, arching leaves and small offshoots add a lively touch to any room, creating a refreshing atmosphere.
    Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 27 Mar. 2025
  • Smyth Tavern is a local destination in itself, thanks to its come-in-and-make-yourself-at-home atmosphere, its friendly service and excellent food.
    Lois Alter Mark, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • In the current economic climate, the book values of energy and infrastructure assets are significantly underestimated.
    Mark Le Dain, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Indeed, this tree doesn’t naturally survive in the climate of Southern California.
    Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 23 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Billet aluminum trim, including the windshield surround and interior trim.
    Mark Phelan, USA TODAY, 15 Mar. 2025
  • And modern lighting technology means there's no hiding once the sun goes down—depending on the model, the surround might illuminate after dark.
    Ars Technica, Ars Technica, 10 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The case is also being viewed in the context of Austria's 2023 espionage scandal, which involved a former high-ranking intelligence officer accused of leaking personal data of senior officials to Russia.
    Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Mar. 2025
  • In the current context, three things are notable about Reagan’s sentiments.
    Andreas Kluth, The Mercury News, 26 Mar. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Environment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/environment. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on environment

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!