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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective sublime contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of sublime are glorious, gorgeous, resplendent, splendid, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When can glorious be used instead of sublime?

The synonyms glorious and sublime are sometimes interchangeable, but glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When would gorgeous be a good substitute for sublime?

Although the words gorgeous and sublime have much in common, gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

When is resplendent a more appropriate choice than sublime?

The words resplendent and sublime are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

Where would splendid be a reasonable alternative to sublime?

The meanings of splendid and sublime largely overlap; however, splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When is it sensible to use superb instead of sublime?

While the synonyms superb and sublime are close in meaning, superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree.

her singing was superb

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 sublime Most capture mundane experiences, impressive in their hyperrealistic way, but some are sublime, or surreal, or place you in a morally challenging position. Anna Russell, The New Yorker, 14 Mar. 2025 For the 19th-century Romantics, sublime referred not to something delightful—as it’s commonly used now— but to a sense of awe in nature inseparable from terror or danger. Chloe Berge, Travel + Leisure, 13 Mar. 2025 As a hint into the genre of beauty (this was the first show attended by ASAP Rocky, which may indicate a market for men) this season’s makeup—asymmetrical lashes, sheer lips, and sublime skin by Pat McGrath—was complimented with playfully coiffed 1920s-30s hairdos. India Espy-Jones, Essence, 13 Mar. 2025 But there’s plenty new, including an Alpine touchscreen display that, to my eye, looks a bit garish hanging off that dash, but it’s connected to a sublime Focal sound system. Tim Stevens, Robb Report, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sublime
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sublime
Adjective
  • Even those with noble intentions, like Boromir, who dream of wielding it to protect their people, fail to grasp its truth.
    Jon Fleischman, Oc Register, 12 Apr. 2025
  • Bonhoeffer’s understanding of conscience inspires heroic action: People really can do the most dangerous and noble things — a good reminder in our low, dishonest times.
    David DeCosse, Mercury News, 11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • This urban getaway lacks the drama of national park favorites like Zion or the Grand Canyon, but its conservation successes are quite astonishing.
    Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 13 Apr. 2025
  • Even so, his start was nothing short of astonishing.
    Doug Ferguson, Chicago Tribune, 13 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • But at first, the seizures were a source of great anxiety for our whole family.
    Grace Bastidas, Parents, 14 Apr. 2025
  • However, the Canadians are doing less, which forces the U.S. to take on a greater share of the responsibility.
    Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 14 Apr. 2025
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
  • Some products, though, could face duties higher than 145 percent.
    Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 10 Apr. 2025
  • From the foyer, an ethanol fireplace encased in slabs of polished stone anchors a lounge beneath ceilings over 10 feet high.
    Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Just imagine the potpourri of amazing facial expressions that would have been on display had Sai been sitting on the jury.
    Dalton Ross, EW.com, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Even the tiniest of living things are capable of some amazing forms of locomotion, and some come with highly sophisticated sensor suites and manage to source their energy from the environment.
    John Timmer, ArsTechnica, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • An elaborate ideology confers legitimacy upon the Kim family: according to the country’s founding myth, Kim Il Sung led a gallant band of guerilla fighters in the bitter winds of Manchuria to defeat the Japanese, liberate the Korean people, and establish the North Korean state.
    JENNIFER LIND, Foreign Affairs, 25 Oct. 2010
  • In stereotypical movies, the gallant hero saves the damsel through daring, dramatic action.
    Amanda Nguyen, TIME, 3 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Washington then completed the miraculous comeback on a game-winning floater by Bub Carrington as the final buzzer sounded.
    Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 13 Apr. 2025
  • Newton North, after a miraculous reverse sweep of Natick in the state semifinals, clawed back in five sets against three-time reigning champion Needham to win its first state title.
    Tom Mulherin, Boston Herald, 11 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sublime.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sublime. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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