Synonym Chooser

How is the word intact distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of intact are entire, perfect, and whole. While all these words mean "not lacking or faulty in any particular," intact implies retention of perfection of a thing in its natural or original state.

the boat survived the storm intact

When might entire be a better fit than intact?

While in some cases nearly identical to intact, entire implies perfection deriving from integrity, soundness, or completeness of a thing.

the entire Beethoven corpus

In what contexts can perfect take the place of intact?

The words perfect and intact can be used in similar contexts, but perfect implies the soundness and the excellence of every part, element, or quality of a thing frequently as an unattainable or theoretical state.

a perfect set of teeth

When would whole be a good substitute for intact?

The words whole and intact are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, whole suggests a completeness or perfection that can be sought, gained, or regained.

felt like a whole person again after vacation

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 intact Despite the loss, Ishii's legacy in the world of professional wrestling remains intact. Justin Gest, Newsweek, 20 Jan. 2025 Biden’s longtime friend, Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC), introduced Biden and assured him that his legacy was intact. Brady Knox, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 19 Jan. 2025 Would the Twins be better off dealing pitcher Chris Paddack, who will make $7.5 million this season, and reallocating those resources to another player or keeping their solid starting pitching depth intact? Dan Hayes, The Athletic, 17 Jan. 2025 After one iteration of Mickey dies, a new body is regenerated with most of his memories intact. Sara Merican, Deadline, 10 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for intact 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • The natural disasters killed at least 29 people and destroyed entire neighborhoods and blocks, leaving an unknown number of people homeless.
    Saba Hamedy, NBC News, 31 Jan. 2025
  • Unlike phishing campaigns targeting the entire workforce, red team exercises often involve precise objectives or trophies, such as gaining access to a critical system or sensitive data.
    Lauren Carpenter, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Until she’s asked to prolong her stay on board of a research vessel for a whole winter, as scientists study the first people ever known to hibernate.
    Marta Balaga, Variety, 30 Jan. 2025
  • Perez, a Kendall area resident who represents a western Miami-Dade district, says a little communication could have gone a long way to preventing the whole imbroglio.
    Ana Ceballos, Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Once that’s complete, you will get connected with a healthcare provider licensed in your state to start your diagnosis and explore potential treatments.
    Chloe Castleberry, Flow Space, 24 Jan. 2025
  • Jenkins, meanwhile, has helped usher in a complete rethink of Memphis’ offense, one that has made the Grizzlies both unpredictable and effective and led what has historically been a defensive-first squad to a top-five rating on offense.
    John Hollinger, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Plus, the Anker Power Bank, which has earned over 80,000 perfect ratings, will keep your device’s battery full on the go.
    Genevieve Cepeda, Travel + Leisure, 26 Jan. 2025
  • In July 2023, the elections division began requiring that those seeking to restore their voting rights in Tennessee both go through the administrative voting rights restoration process and either be granted a pardon or court order restoring their full rights of citizenship.
    Evan Mealins, The Tennessean, 26 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Everything about Rae’s 2024 has definitely felt like perfect timing.
    Brittany Spanos, Rolling Stone, 21 Jan. 2025
  • Still, Edwards doesn’t profess to be a future Caleb Williams or even junior quarterback Mason Atkins, who led the Blackhawks to a perfect 9-0 regular season and the Class 8A playoffs last fall.
    Rick Armstrong, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The Vatican has released a comprehensive document offering new guidelines for the ethical development and use of artificial intelligence, with a focus on areas such as warfare and healthcare.
    Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 29 Jan. 2025
  • These kinds of issues frequently pave the way for more comprehensive health optimization.
    Nick Kasmik, USA TODAY, 29 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near intact

Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 4 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on intact

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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