1
2

Synonym Chooser

How is the word mechanical distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of mechanical are automatic, impulsive, instinctive, and spontaneous. While all these words mean "acting or activated without deliberation," mechanical stresses the lifeless, often perfunctory character of the response.

a mechanical teaching method

When might automatic be a better fit than mechanical?

While in some cases nearly identical to mechanical, automatic implies action engaging neither the mind nor the emotions and connotes a predictable response.

his denial was automatic

When would impulsive be a good substitute for mechanical?

While the synonyms impulsive and mechanical are close in meaning, impulsive implies acting under stress of emotion or spirit of the moment.

impulsive acts of violence

When can instinctive be used instead of mechanical?

The synonyms instinctive and mechanical are sometimes interchangeable, but instinctive stresses action involving neither judgment nor will.

blinking is an instinctive reaction

When is spontaneous a more appropriate choice than mechanical?

Although the words spontaneous and mechanical have much in common, spontaneous implies lack of prompting and connotes naturalness.

a spontaneous burst of applause

Examples 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 mechanical One of the challenges is the waves can arrive erratically, so building devices that can withstand a challenging environment is key, Maha Haji, an assistant professor of mechanical, aerospace and systems engineering at Cornell University, told ABC News. Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 4 Dec. 2024 This wireless keyboard packs backlit keys, wired or wireless connectivity, and low-profile mechanical switches in your choice of tactile quiet, clicky, or linear. Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 3 Dec. 2024 Animatronics often include electronic, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic parts. IEEE Spectrum, 2 Dec. 2024 The Office of the State Fire Marshal is responsible for enforcing codes, standards and regulations to reduce the harm associated with fires, explosions and mechanical failures. Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 30 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for mechanical 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mechanical
Adjective
  • Submitting an application that doesn’t follow their specific requirements can result in automatic rejection.
    Melissa Houston, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024
  • However, instead of adding this plan to its retirement savings lineup, the tech giant used it to replace its 5% 401(k) match and 1% automatic contribution.
    Medora Lee, USA TODAY, 13 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • While some can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind.
    Erin Parker, Allure, 4 Dec. 2024
  • An over-fluffed tree can look unnatural and disfigure the branches and branch ends of your tree.
    Rabekah Henderson, Southern Living, 30 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Make the response personal, avoiding corporate language or robotic phrases.
    Jodie Cook, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024
  • The robotic explorer will investigate the oldest rocks on Mars to uncover more about the planet’s mysterious past.
    Ashley Strickland, CNN, 14 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • In August 2022, China launched a mock military blockade of Taiwan after Nancy Pelosi became the first serving U.S. House speaker to visit the island in 25 years.
    Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024
  • Her sleeveless dress included a mock neck and flounce detail in the front that allowed for a thigh-high slit.
    Mikelle Street, WWD, 9 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Harroun installed it with a bracket above the dashboard rather than have a mechanic ride in the race with him, as was the custom of the day.
    George Petras, USA TODAY, 24 May 2024
  • When Part 4 was released in August 2023, mechanic Bennie was losing his garage.
    Cheryl V. Jackson, The Indianapolis Star, 17 Apr. 2024
Adjective
  • But inflation, housing shortages and strained services have fueled frustration at migrant and refugee populations in many European countries, and the unrest has manifested itself at the ballot box in Britain, France, Germany, Italy and several others.
    Rob Picheta, CNN, 14 Dec. 2024
  • Eminem often highlighted his strained relationship with his mother in his music early in his career.
    Mirna Alsharif, NBC News, 3 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • For one thing, markets had not significantly anticipated a Trump win in 2016, and indeed there was a reflex selloff on election night, which quickly reversed.
    Michael Santoli, CNBC, 26 Oct. 2024
  • Based on the title character from the Netflix show Vida the Vet, this kit contains five sensory toys for treating patients, including a stethoscope with sound effects and reflex hammer.
    Pamela Brill, Parents, 24 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • Keep scrolling to check out these artificial Christmas trees that will arrive at your door in just a few days — prices start at $18.
    Toni Sutton, People.com, 11 Dec. 2024
  • However, there’s one thing artificial trees lack that real trees have in abundance: fragrance.
    Cody Godwin, USA TODAY, 11 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near mechanical

Cite this Entry

“Mechanical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mechanical. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on mechanical

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!