Synonym Chooser

How does the verb insert contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of insert are insinuate, intercalate, interject, interpolate, interpose, and introduce. While all these words mean "to put between or among others," insert implies putting into a fixed or open space between or among.

inserted a clause in the contract

When is it sensible to use insinuate instead of insert?

The words insinuate and insert are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, insinuate implies introducing gradually or by gentle pressure.

insinuated himself into the group

When can intercalate be used instead of insert?

In some situations, the words intercalate and insert are roughly equivalent. However, intercalate suggests an intrusive inserting of something in an existing series or sequence.

new chapters intercalated with the old

In what contexts can interject take the place of insert?

While in some cases nearly identical to insert, interject implies an abrupt or forced introduction.

interjected a question

When is interpolate a more appropriate choice than insert?

Although the words interpolate and insert have much in common, interpolate applies to the inserting of something extraneous or spurious.

interpolated her own comments into the report

Where would interpose be a reasonable alternative to insert?

The synonyms interpose and insert are sometimes interchangeable, but interpose suggests inserting an obstruction or cause of delay.

interpose barriers to communication

When would introduce be a good substitute for insert?

While the synonyms introduce and insert are close in meaning, introduce is a general term for bringing or placing a thing or person into a group or body already in existence.

introduced a new topic into the conversation

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 insert Physicians inserted a small flexible scope into Gerlaugh’s urethra to remove the stone. Christopher O'Donnell, Orlando Sentinel, 7 Feb. 2025 Also, the fat cannot be inserted under or into the gluteal muscles in the buttocks. David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 7 Feb. 2025 An endoscopy involves inserting a flexible tube with a tiny camera into your mouth and throat. Lindsay Curtis, Health, 6 Feb. 2025 Cut deep slits all over roast for garlic cloves using the tip of a paring knife; insert cloves deep into roast. Sabrina Weiss, People.com, 5 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for insert 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for insert
Verb
  • Deep Space Nine introduced a darkened, complex morality to Star Trek, including through the introduction of Section 31.
    Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 7 Feb. 2025
  • Now, a Democratic lawmaker in Congress has introduced a bill that would end federal contracts for special government employees (like Musk), citing conflict-of-interest concerns.
    Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 7 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • The storm injected a substantial amount of energy into Earth's upper atmosphere, inflating the thermosphere and increasing the atmospheric drag on the satellite.
    Keith Cooper, Space.com, 11 Feb. 2025
  • The liquidity, stability, and wealth effect brought about by this influx of funds could potentially inject vitality into the consumer market at the turn of the year.
    Li Jun, WWD, 9 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • The Boston market has remained steady and healthy, Hartwick added.
    Ruth Thompson, USA TODAY, 16 Feb. 2025
  • Lowe added that the water supply for current residents will not be affected by the new development.
    Alexandra Hardle, The Arizona Republic, 16 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Scarborough then took his chance to interject, comparing Trump to a corrupt Caesar.
    Harrison Chon-Walker, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Jan. 2025
  • Asked Sunday about the Knicks’ lack of bench production, the Milwaukee Bucks’ head coach interjected with a line about Tom Thibodeau’s reputation for relying heavily on his starters.
    Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 12 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Boxer was tasked with developing a sweet riff on Guinness and oysters: a classic, harmonious pairing where the delicate, sweet iodine of the oysters interpolates with the bolshie caramel stout.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 6 Jan. 2025
  • The figure below shows the long-term oil demand from the IEA’s World Energy Outlook volumes from 2019 to 2024 (data is interpolated).
    Michael Lynch, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near insert

Cite this Entry

“Insert.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/insert. Accessed 19 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on insert

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