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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective prominent differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of prominent are conspicuous, noticeable, outstanding, remarkable, salient, and striking. While all these words mean "attracting notice or attention," prominent applies to something commanding notice by standing out from its surroundings or background.

a doctor who occupies a prominent position in the town

When might conspicuous be a better fit than prominent?

The words conspicuous and prominent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, conspicuous applies to something that is obvious and unavoidable to the sight or mind.

conspicuous bureaucratic waste

When can noticeable be used instead of prominent?

The words noticeable and prominent can be used in similar contexts, but noticeable applies to something unlikely to escape observation.

a piano recital with no noticeable errors

Where would outstanding be a reasonable alternative to prominent?

The meanings of outstanding and prominent largely overlap; however, outstanding applies to something that rises above and excels others of the same kind.

honored for her outstanding contributions to science

In what contexts can remarkable take the place of prominent?

The synonyms remarkable and prominent are sometimes interchangeable, but remarkable applies to something so extraordinary or exceptional as to invite comment.

a film of remarkable intelligence and wit

When is it sensible to use salient instead of prominent?

In some situations, the words salient and prominent are roughly equivalent. However, salient applies to something of significance that merits the attention given it.

the salient points of the speech

When could striking be used to replace prominent?

Although the words striking and prominent have much in common, striking applies to something that impresses itself powerfully and deeply upon the observer's mind or vision.

the region's striking poverty

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 prominent Several prominent actresses came forward with accusations against the disgraced mogul, including Ashley Judd, Annabella Sciorra, and Ellen Barkin. Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 13 Mar. 2025 But his views questioning certain vaccines have garnered attention since he was nominated months ago and were sure to play a prominent role in questioning. Caitlin Owens, Axios, 13 Mar. 2025 Apple's latest app for iOS, Apple Invites, may also offer a sneak peek, with more vibrant colors than other native apps and a settings page that makes prominent use of the translucent backgrounds seen on visionOS. Jibin Joseph, PCMAG, 12 Mar. 2025 In a meeting with prominent food executives, including PepsiCo’s North America CEO, Kennedy called for the removal of artificial dyes from foods. Hakyung Kim, CNBC, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for prominent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prominent
Adjective
  • Use the dome light and flashers to make your vehicle more noticeable.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacramento Bee, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Yet there were no noticeable MAGA hats at Edwards’ town hall.
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 17 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The release of Good American Family, an Ellen Pompeo limited series based on the adoption of Natalia Grace by Kristine and Michael Barnett, has brought the very famous case back to the spotlight.
    Lissete Lanuza Sáenz, StyleCaster, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Most are sourced by the Cullinan mine, which has yielded many of the world’s most famous diamonds, including the 530-carat Great Star of Africa, the largest faceted colorless diamond in the world.
    Anthony DeMarco, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Despite entering the final round four shots back, McIlroy held a commanding three-shot lead on the back nine.
    Mark Davis, Newsweek, 17 Mar. 2025
  • On Sunday, the Israeli commanding officers visited and assessed the buffer zone.
    arkansasonline.com, arkansasonline.com, 10 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Another recalled bitterly that Martin had demolished a building nearby that was designed in part by famed Beach architect Morris Lapidus, designer of the Fontainebleau Hotel, to build the Eighty-Seven Park luxury condo.
    Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Jennie: The Ruby Experience is at the famed Radio City Music Hall for one night only.
    Irene Kim, Vogue, 23 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Given Trump’s order, the release of all this information sounded dramatic, but much of what has been revealed is about as interesting as that driver’s-license detail.
    Kaitlyn Tiffany, The Atlantic, 22 Mar. 2025
  • Former Reba co-stars Melissa Peterman (as Gabby, the needy and dramatic bartender) and Reba McEntire already have proven chemistry, and any scene between the two is a lightning rod for plenty of chuckles.
    Marc Berman, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Music marks Carti’s first full-length album in five years, following his celebrated 2020 effort, Whole Lotta Red.
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 14 Mar. 2025
  • The outfit’s selling prowess is back on full display this week as a classic from Metallica’s celebrated discography returns to one Billboard chart.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • It’s been remarkable how much the Company has grown and succeeded over that period.
    Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 17 Mar. 2025
  • It’s been remarkable how much the company has grown and succeeded over that period.
    Katcy Stephan, Variety, 17 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The vodka is renowned for its herbal, slightly sweet flavor, which comes from the bison grass carefully added during production.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025
  • The one-time University of Louisville legend amassed a diverse portfolio that included hundreds of Wendy’s and Chili’s franchises, a Coca-Cola bottling distribution company that spanned three states and Canada, as well as ownership of renowned Ebony and Jet Magazines.
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 14 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Prominent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prominent. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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