Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective adventurous contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adventurous are daredevil, daring, foolhardy, rash, reckless, and venturesome. While all these words mean "exposing oneself to danger more than required by good sense," adventurous implies a willingness to accept risks but not necessarily imprudence.

adventurous pioneers

When would daredevil be a good substitute for adventurous?

The words daredevil and adventurous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, daredevil stresses ostentation in daring.

daredevil motorcyclists

When is it sensible to use daring instead of adventurous?

In some situations, the words daring and adventurous are roughly equivalent. However, daring implies fearlessness in courting danger.

daring mountain climbers

When can foolhardy be used instead of adventurous?

The words foolhardy and adventurous can be used in similar contexts, but foolhardy suggests a recklessness that is inconsistent with good sense.

the foolhardy sailor ventured into the storm

When is rash a more appropriate choice than adventurous?

While in some cases nearly identical to adventurous, rash suggests imprudence and lack of forethought.

a rash decision

When could reckless be used to replace adventurous?

Although the words reckless and adventurous have much in common, reckless implies heedlessness of probable consequences.

a reckless driver

In what contexts can venturesome take the place of adventurous?

The synonyms venturesome and adventurous are sometimes interchangeable, but venturesome implies a jaunty eagerness for perilous undertakings.

venturesome stunt pilots

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 adventurous In addition to the on-site activities, such as surfing and paddleboarding, guests also enjoy a variety of adventurous pursuits within the larger Mandarina complex like zip lining, golfing, and pickleball. Maya Kachroo-Levine, Travel + Leisure, 22 May 2025 In this game, Jack – an employee of the massive Hyperion corporation – leads a group of adventurous vault hunters on a mission to regain control of Helios, a Hyperion base on Pandora's moon, Elpis. Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 22 May 2025 Image Truly adventurous talk shows take time to find their voice. Jason Zinoman, New York Times, 20 May 2025 The park is now a stop for the more adventurous sightseers, or researchers cataloging the species that call the island home. Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 12 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for adventurous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adventurous
Adjective
  • Another suspect has been arrested in connection with a massive New Orleans jailbreak involving 10 inmates, who pulled off their daring escape earlier this week by slipping out a hole carved behind a prison toilet.
    Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 23 May 2025
  • Their absences seemed an eerie reminder that the troubled motion picture economy could no longer sustain either their soaring production budgets or their daring aspirations.
    Peter Bart, Deadline, 22 May 2025
Adjective
  • While some men gravitate toward bold logos or avant-garde streetwear, Powers advises balance.
    Cassell Ferere, Forbes.com, 25 May 2025
  • This is maximalism to a T: a big stripe, a ruffle detail, a bold contrast.
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 25 May 2025
Adjective
  • In her courageous testimony, Ventura described the myriad means by which Combs achieved and maintained power and control over her during their decade-long relationship.
    Elizabeth Geddes, Rolling Stone, 23 May 2025
  • While there are many other ways to foster courageous leadership, these three are evergreen.
    Quang X. Pham, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
Adjective
  • His passionate commitment to Christianity led to a compassionate attention to his fellow human beings, as well as a fearless urge to correct wrongdoing.
    Time, Time, 27 May 2025
  • Known for her nuanced performances and fearless role choices, Krieps will share insights into her artistic journey, the challenges of portraying complex characters, and her approach to storytelling across diverse cinematic landscapes.
    Christian Blauvelt, IndieWire, 16 May 2025
Adjective
  • Despite those scares, Ramon was brave enough to push out and defend in the opposition half.
    Guillermo Rai, New York Times, 19 May 2025
  • Many leaders want breakthrough thinking yet fail to set the conditions for people to feel brave enough to contribute.
    Ashley B. Stewart, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • The newly-hyperactive Apple and Amazon, which control relatively few franchises, are more adventuresome with originals than the older studios.
    Peter Bart, Deadline, 24 Apr. 2025
  • However, college kids and teens are adventuresome travel companions who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, fine dining, and cool shopping.
    Jackie Burrell, Parents, 29 July 2024
Adjective
  • The exemption didn’t require a minimum length of time for a contest, so enterprising companies figured out a way to develop a fantasy contest that would feel more akin to sports betting, while still operating within the guidelines of fantasy sports.
    David Hill, Rolling Stone, 24 May 2025
  • The 1997 Porsche 911 GT2 R is a job, in other words, for a professional Porsche restoration shop, or perhaps an enterprising amateur.
    Erik Shilling, Robb Report, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • Lori, impulsive and headstrong in her own way, won’t let Ruth slip away so easily.
    Zac Ntim, Deadline, 17 May 2025
  • Grandchildren who are close to grandparents are more secure, perform better in school and are less impulsive.
    Mark Gerson, FOXNews.com, 17 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adventurous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adventurous. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.

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