1
as in versatile
able to do many different kinds of things
a universal wrench
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in general
belonging or relating to the whole
mankind's universal need for affection
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in comprehensive
covering everything or all important points
the genius of Leonardo da Vinci was universal: he was an artist, an architect, an engineer, and a scientist, among other things
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in ubiquitous
present in all places and at all times
after the home team won the national championship, throughout the city a sense of pride was as universal as the air
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of universal
According to Gallino, the Zara case study is less an argument about technology generating universal benefits to retailers, but rather an example of a company doing the research and iterating a technology’s use to fit its specific needs.
—
Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 28 May 2026
For one, sustainability is difficult to define — and there isn't a universal set of standards.
—ABC News, 28 May 2026
Mirabeau’s words in support of universal equality were addressed to the plantation owners in France’s overseas colonies who had fought vigorously to be allowed to have deputies in the National Assembly.
—Jeremy D. Popkin, The Conversation, 28 May 2026
Standing, the British labor economist, is best known for his advocacy around universal basic income and calling for governments to play a more robust role guaranteeing citizens financial security.
—Justin Worland, Time, 28 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for universal
Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 28 May 2026
For one, sustainability is difficult to define — and there isn't a universal set of standards.
—ABC News, 28 May 2026
Mirabeau’s words in support of universal equality were addressed to the plantation owners in France’s overseas colonies who had fought vigorously to be allowed to have deputies in the National Assembly.
—Jeremy D. Popkin, The Conversation, 28 May 2026
Standing, the British labor economist, is best known for his advocacy around universal basic income and calling for governments to play a more robust role guaranteeing citizens financial security.
—Justin Worland, Time, 28 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for universal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for universal
Adjective
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Meanwhile, Nico Hoerner was the starting shortstop in Saturday’s lineup, with rookie infielder Pedro Ramírez covering second base, underlining the potential options for a club with several versatile defenders.—
Patrick Mooney,
New York Times,
7 June 2026
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He's considered one of the planet’s most versatile watermen, with accolades that include eight-time stand-up paddle world champion, hydrofoil pioneer, and big-wave master.—
Arati Menon,
Condé Nast Traveler,
7 June 2026
Adjective
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That's our mission now is to help other DIYers learn how to do more on their project, from general contracting all the way through some of the actual construction elements.—
Tabitha Parent,
PEOPLE,
29 May 2026
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There are chances to take a deep dive into various history or literature classes beyond general education requirements, or for students to discover their passions or potential career pathways, Ellman said.—
Michelle Mullins,
Chicago Tribune,
29 May 2026
Adjective
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To operate safely in dynamic industrial settings, the robot is equipped with dual front-and-rear LiDAR systems and a comprehensive perception suite.—
Jijo Malayil,
Interesting Engineering,
2 June 2026
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Kenjura told Crain the police department was working on a comprehensive update to the city’s safety ordinances that will address concerns related to e-scooters and other mobility devices.—
Matthew Adams,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
2 June 2026
Adjective
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Behold the kingdom of golden arches, where Big Macs reign supreme, salty fries slide into ubiquitous red containers, and McFlurries dance on taste buds all year long.—
James Mercadante,
Entertainment Weekly,
4 June 2026
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In recent years, the rise of dating apps—some of which allow users to set height preferences when browsing potential matches—has made height exaggeration even more ubiquitous.—
Brady Brickner-Wood,
New Yorker,
4 June 2026
Adjective
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Saronic aims to transition autonomous shipping from prototyping to large-scale production by integrating this adaptable platform with a fast manufacturing strategy.—
Mrigakshi Dixit,
Interesting Engineering,
1 June 2026
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An outcome would be more stable and adaptable behavior of the rover in granular environments.—
Leonard David,
Space.com,
31 May 2026
Adjective
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While the sets, lighting, costume changes and visual effects are stunners, the music by composer and arranger Imogen Heap is shockingly generic, like the copyright-free soundtrack of a YouTube ad, blandly calibrated and recalling nothing of John Williams’ iconic themes for the films.—
John Wenzel,
Denver Post,
4 June 2026
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The initial producer’s pitch was for a low-rent superhero, but finding something that’s never been done for even a generic superhero is a challenge.—
Sarah Shachat,
IndieWire,
4 June 2026
Adjective
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Several analysts argue that an open Strait of Hormuz, even one partly controlled by Iran, would inflict less damage on the global economy than one that is closed.—
Hanna Ziady,
CNN Money,
4 June 2026
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But despite this, experts say the lack of AI play is not the main reason why global investors are exiting India.—
Priyanka Salve,
CNBC,
4 June 2026
Adjective
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In fact, the coverage for the start of Davis’s second marathon was far more widespread than the first and included an article on Mark Samuels, the artist who painted the second Winkie billboard.—
Jonathan Odden,
Artforum,
2 June 2026
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That coming Fall of 2020, universal masking in schools and daycares was recommended by the CDC and widespread mandates were enacted at the state, district and county levels for children as young as two.—
Ian Miller OutKick,
FOXNews.com,
1 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Universal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/universal. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.
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