Synonym Chooser

How does the verb interpolate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of interpolate are insert, insinuate, intercalate, interject, interpose, and introduce. While all these words mean "to put between or among others," interpolate applies to the inserting of something extraneous or spurious.

interpolated her own comments into the report

Where would insert be a reasonable alternative to interpolate?

The synonyms insert and interpolate are sometimes interchangeable, but insert implies putting into a fixed or open space between or among.

inserted a clause in the contract

When might insinuate be a better fit than interpolate?

Although the words insinuate and interpolate have much in common, insinuate implies introducing gradually or by gentle pressure.

insinuated himself into the group

When could intercalate be used to replace interpolate?

The words intercalate and interpolate can be used in similar contexts, but intercalate suggests an intrusive inserting of something in an existing series or sequence.

new chapters intercalated with the old

When can interject be used instead of interpolate?

The meanings of interject and interpolate largely overlap; however, interject implies an abrupt or forced introduction.

interjected a question

In what contexts can interpose take the place of interpolate?

While in some cases nearly identical to interpolate, interpose suggests inserting an obstruction or cause of delay.

interpose barriers to communication

When is it sensible to use introduce instead of interpolate?

The words introduce and interpolate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 interpolate Part of Ayers’s respect in the hip-hop community is derived from his willingness to work with the artists who’ve sampled and interpolated him. Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 6 Mar. 2025 The song has been sampled or interpolated over 150 times, according to Whosampled. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 5 Mar. 2025 Drake clearly took some inspiration from her, interpolating her flow and even adopting a few of her most quotable lines. Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 14 Feb. 2025 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 See All Example Sentences for interpolate

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Cite this Entry

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

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