Synonym Chooser

How is the word intact distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of intact are entire, perfect, and whole. While all these words mean "not lacking or faulty in any particular," intact implies retention of perfection of a thing in its natural or original state.

the boat survived the storm intact

When might entire be a better fit than intact?

While in some cases nearly identical to intact, entire implies perfection deriving from integrity, soundness, or completeness of a thing.

the entire Beethoven corpus

In what contexts can perfect take the place of intact?

The words perfect and intact can be used in similar contexts, but perfect implies the soundness and the excellence of every part, element, or quality of a thing frequently as an unattainable or theoretical state.

a perfect set of teeth

When would whole be a good substitute for intact?

The words whole and intact are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, whole suggests a completeness or perfection that can be sought, gained, or regained.

felt like a whole person again after vacation

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 intact Also intact was the College Scorecard, an Obama-era tool that uses information about universities to help students decide whether programs provide value that merits the investment. Zachary Schermele, USA TODAY, 11 Feb. 2025 But by and large, Philadelphia’s core remains intact. Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 11 Feb. 2025 They were found with their fuses and contents intact. Alexandra E. Petri, New York Times, 11 Feb. 2025 Much like his award-winning song, he is rightfully being celebrated for his ability to elevate hip-hop while keeping its roots intact. Janeé Bolden, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for intact 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • The federal agency that has the most power over Tesla — and the entire automobile industry — is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which is part of the Department of Transportation. NHTSA sets automobile safety standards that must be met before vehicles can enter the marketplace.
    Kimberly Kindy, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2025
  • Although Trump appears to have thought better of dissolving the entire office, its director can’t really succeed at fulfilling its purpose without the president’s support.
    Nicholas Florko, The Atlantic, 11 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The product is front and center in the whole thing.
    Alex Weprin, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 Feb. 2025
  • The after: alone in a quiet kitchen, rinsing out wine glasses and marveling over how little the whole thing cost me.
    Kendra Vaculin, Bon Appétit, 11 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Of course, no good Mardi Gras party is complete without a parade.
    Megan duBois, Southern Living, 17 Feb. 2025
  • And the vibe is not complete without jazz or a nineties playlist.
    Akili King, Essence, 17 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The teeth that did grow in the mini pigs didn’t reach a full human tooth size and likely wouldn’t stand up to regular use.
    Mack DeGeurin, Popular Science, 7 Feb. 2025
  • The team reimagined and redesigned more than 500 screens full of data.
    Kevin Purdy, Ars Technica, 7 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • There are also group classes, perfect for those who want a supportive and interactive environment.
    Hilary Tetenbaum, USA TODAY, 14 Feb. 2025
  • Orly Nail Lacquer On Sale 10% off $9 Buy Now On Amazon This Orly Nail Lacquer comes in a few sheer nude shades, perfect for an American manicure.
    Kleigh Balugo, StyleCaster, 14 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The top 25 airlines all meet a list of specific requirements, such as providing a comprehensive full-service experience, and having an economy seat pitch of a minimum of 31 inches.
    Tamara Hardingham-Gill, CNN, 9 Feb. 2025
  • There is also little doubt those comprehensive plans went up in flames.
    Josh Klein, New York Daily News, 9 Feb. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near intact

Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on intact

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