Synonym Chooser

How is the word stupendous different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of stupendous are monstrous, prodigious, and tremendous. While all these words mean "extremely impressive," stupendous implies a power to stun or astound, usually because of size, numbers, complexity, or greatness beyond description.

a stupendous volcanic eruption

In what contexts can monstrous take the place of stupendous?

The words monstrous and stupendous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, monstrous implies a departure from the normal (as in size, form, or character) and often carries suggestions of deformity, ugliness, or fabulousness.

the monstrous waste of the project

When is prodigious a more appropriate choice than stupendous?

Although the words prodigious and stupendous have much in common, prodigious suggests a marvelousness exceeding belief, usually in something felt as going far beyond a previous maximum (as of goodness, greatness, intensity, or size).

made a prodigious effort and rolled the stone aside

Where would tremendous be a reasonable alternative to stupendous?

While in some cases nearly identical to stupendous, tremendous may imply a power to terrify or inspire awe.

the tremendous roar of the cataract

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 stupendous Witness Rishabh Pant's stupendous 61 that has given India a chance to square the series. Tim Ellis, Forbes, 4 Jan. 2025 After this stupendous comeback win, Quinn honored the rookie in his way. Ben Standig, The Athletic, 23 Dec. 2024 The escalating statement of the stupendous is also a specialty. Ron Elving, NPR, 14 Sep. 2024 With Limerick in your sites, the stupendous 5 star Adare Manor should be your primary destination, if not for the wonderful accommodation and hospitality, then for the fine dining at The Oak Room, the area’s first Michelin starred venue. Paul Caputo, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for stupendous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stupendous
Adjective
  • Embracing different cultures: There is plenty of wonderful Mexican culture depicted throughout the film, from cooking traditional dishes to the vibrant atmosphere.
    Alex Vance, Parents, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Cherish these moments and know that your efforts to preserve their voices are a wonderful tribute to your relationships.
    Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report, FOXNews.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Even just having a small role in a movie like that is amazing.
    Brian Davids, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Regardless of your political affiliation, one thing is certain in these uncertain times: an amazing array of beer is being brewed across the United States.
    Hudson Lindenberger, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • An astonishing, loopy and very true World War II story about Great Britain tricking Germany into believing false invasion plans has been the source material for non-fiction books and movies dramas.
    Frank Rizzo, Variety, 21 Mar. 2025
  • This was a 90% increase over the 9.9 million viewers who tuned in for the 2023 final and an astonishing 288% jump from 2022.
    Jenn Nelson, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • One traffic violation on a Kansas highway led to the miraculous rescue of a 6-year-old girl who had been kidnapped.
    Leah Sarnoff, ABC News, 25 Mar. 2025
  • Colorado State’s Jalen Lake hit a miraculous triple over high hands in similar circumstances.
    Baltimore Sun staff, Baltimore Sun, 24 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • This tech — along with the incredible support system of my parents, brothers, management team and eventually, my wife — significantly decreased the mental burden of managing my diabetes and in turn, empowered me to not let diabetes define my capabilities.
    Nick Jonas, USA TODAY, 20 Mar. 2025
  • Sir Elton has exemplified these ideals throughout his extraordinary career, not only with his incredible musical catalogue and immense talent but also championing emerging artists across genres and using his global platform to inspire transformational humanistic change.
    Paul Grein, Billboard, 20 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The type of people who work in education are marvelous, doing their best for the students.
    C. R. Walker, Chicago Tribune, 24 Mar. 2025
  • This marvelous painting — my Frick favorite — has rivals in the nearby West Gallery.
    Holland Cotter, New York Times, 20 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • That is not surprising, as sorting through differences takes consistent effort over time and is one of the more difficult areas.
    Mary Crossan, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025
  • That’s precisely where the most surprising discoveries are made and the greatest satisfaction is derived.
    Robert Ross, Robb Report, 26 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The stunning layer cake is perfect for spring celebrations.
    Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 19 Mar. 2025
  • The stunning knit is made from 100 percent organic cotton, boasting the most flattering, drapey fit that pairs well with anything from trousers to a pair of linen shorts.
    Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 19 Mar. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stupendous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stupendous. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on stupendous

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!