LIVELY Synonyms: 172 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'lively' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of lively are animated , gay , sprightly , and vivacious . While all these words mean "keenly alive and spirited," lively suggests briskness, alertness, or energy. // a lively debate on the issues

Q: In what contexts can 'animated' take the place of 'lively'?

The synonyms animated and lively are sometimes interchangeable, but animated applies to what is spirited and active. // an animated discussion of current events

Q: When could 'gay' be used to replace 'lively'?

The meanings of gay and lively largely overlap; however, gay stresses complete freedom from care and overflowing spirits. // the gay spirit of Paris in the 1920s

Q: When can 'sprightly' be used instead of 'lively'?

The words sprightly and lively are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sprightly suggests lightness and spirited vigor of manner or wit. // a tuneful, sprightly musical

Q: When is it sensible to use 'vivacious' instead of 'lively'?

Although the words vivacious and lively have much in common, vivacious suggests an activeness of gesture and wit, often playful or alluring. // a vivacious party host

lively 1 of 2

adverb

Definition of lively next

as in playfully

in a quick and spirited manner now then, step lively there

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

lively

2 of 2

adjective

ˈlīv-lē

as in energetic

having much high-spirited energy and movement the lively puppy was racing around the dining room floor chasing after people's shoelaces

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in vibrant

marked by much life, movement, or activity the party was a lively affair that lasted into the small hours of the morning

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective lively contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of lively are animated, gay, sprightly, and vivacious. While all these words mean "keenly alive and spirited," lively suggests briskness, alertness, or energy.

a lively debate on the issues

In what contexts can animated take the place of lively?

The synonyms animated and lively are sometimes interchangeable, but animated applies to what is spirited and active.

an animated discussion of current events

When could gay be used to replace lively?

The meanings of gay and lively largely overlap; however, gay stresses complete freedom from care and overflowing spirits.

the gay spirit of Paris in the 1920s

When can sprightly be used instead of lively?

The words sprightly and lively are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sprightly suggests lightness and spirited vigor of manner or wit.

a tuneful, sprightly musical

When is it sensible to use vivacious instead of lively?

Although the words vivacious and lively have much in common, vivacious suggests an activeness of gesture and wit, often playful or alluring.

a vivacious party host

Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of lively

Adjective

Jones' shelter bio describes him as a lively, affectionate Terrier mix who enjoys long walks, playing with tennis balls and frisbees, and cuddling up with his favorite humans. —

Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 1 Feb. 2025 McRae’s songs followed lively sets from No Doubt and P!nk, two of the many artists who joined forces for Thursday night’s benefit show. —

Kyle Denis, Billboard, 31 Jan. 2025 Bella is survived by her father, Andrew Edwards. Aaliyah McShann, a lively child who loved singing, dancing and the kids’ television program Cocomelon, was close with her family as well as her classmates at Shee’s Babes Homecare. —

Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 31 Jan. 2025 Directed by Christopher Renshaw, the show features lively musical staging and choreography by Rickey Tripp. —

Jared McCallister, New York Daily News, 31 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for lively

Recent Examples of Synonyms for lively

Adjective

Whatever the reason, pop the top and embrace this energetic, aromatic, and balanced to the very last drop.

— BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2025
While the mood throughout the night was mostly energetic and festive, a few speakers took aim at Trump's policies.

— Axios, Axios, 3 Feb. 2025