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ideal

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun ideal differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of ideal are example, exemplar, model, and pattern. While all these words mean "someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation," ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception.

never found a job that matched his ideal

When can example be used instead of ideal?

The synonyms example and ideal are sometimes interchangeable, but example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning.

children tend to follow the example of their parents

When might exemplar be a better fit than ideal?

The words exemplar and ideal are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification.

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

In what contexts can model take the place of ideal?

The words model and ideal can be used in similar contexts, but model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation.

a decor that is a model of good taste

When could pattern be used to replace ideal?

Although the words pattern and ideal have much in common, pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype.

American industry set a pattern for others to follow

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 ideal
Adjective
On paper, Lena Dunham and Megan Stalter seem like an ideal creative match for their new Netflix comedy Too Much. Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 11 July 2025 Adorama This is a fast card that's ideal for your camera and capable of shooting video. Simon Hill, Wired News, 11 July 2025
Noun
Included in the mix is a denim jacket by Stella McCartney, ideal for summer nights under the stars, a trend-forward mini from Frame, to pair with everything from flip-flops to retro sneakers and a plain white T-shirt, and ecru jeans from Madewell—a summertime no-brainer. Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 10 July 2025 Centrists must experience an inequality epiphany: the realization that the U.S. economic system has drifted far from its meritocratic ideals and now sustains an entrenched elite whose wealth is largely insulated from market discipline. Dan Perry, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for ideal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ideal
Adjective
  • Final Approach The consequences are no longer theoretical.
    Emil Sayegh, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025
  • For the first time in decades, the question of succession is no longer theoretical.
    Pegah Banihashemi, Twin Cities, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • Original price: $179.99 The Florence by Mills Women's two wheel rolling travel duffle bag is perfect for weekend getaways or longer trips.
    Nora Colomer may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 8 July 2025
  • Again, perfect as a new smart assistant and alarm clock in one.
    Nena Farrell, Wired News, 8 July 2025
Noun
  • The most transformative ideas often come from the edges—from employees closest to the customer, to the problem, to the reality.
    Alex Goryachev, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025
  • One of the first in the now exceedingly popular date night genre, this nifty book has 50 date ideas to keep things interesting for you and your boo.
    WIRED, Wired News, 10 July 2025
Noun
  • The film didn’t perform well, but the soundtrack has become a cult classic, and now, The Pick of Destiny has become a commercial success.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • During a stay, guests are privy to elaborate breakfast spreads that present Mexican classics like huevos rancheros and chilaquiles in the highest quality manner with ingredients sourced from traditional markets around the city.
    Michaela Trimble, Vogue, 13 July 2025
Noun
  • Responses are for informational purposes only and individuals should consider whether any general recommendation in these responses are suitable for their particular circumstances based on investment objectives, financial situation and needs.
    Steve Hruby, The Enquirer, 8 July 2025
  • Jason Robertson, Dallas Stars Robertson’s name has generated early buzz this summer, but not solely for extension purposes.
    Shayna Goldman, New York Times, 8 July 2025
Adjective
  • And his government constructed a temple to Ram on the site of a former mosque in Ayodhya, the mythical birthplace of the eponymous hero of a Hindu epic.
    HARTOSH SINGH BAL, Foreign Affairs, 30 June 2025
  • Ozark Bathhouse, adorned with facade planters bearing pairs of mythical flying creatures, sometimes functions as a cultural center that hosts exhibits of arts and crafts.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 30 June 2025
Adjective
  • There’s no flawless way to do it; enrollment numbers can’t really account for a sport’s tradition in a town or school.
    Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 12 July 2025
  • Changing this idea to an in-game system where you are now being asked to achieve something (go flawless in Trials of Osiris) to unlock the ability to buy a digital ornament for real money (this will cost about $7-10 depending on your Silver stores).
    Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 12 July 2025
Noun
  • The Double Shot made our reviewer's hair nice and smooth while giving it volume, and managed to give less frizz than other models.
    Boutayna Chokrane, Wired News, 9 July 2025
  • Map migration priorities to outcomes such as accelerating innovation, enabling real-time analytics or supporting new digital business models.
    Chetan Mathur, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ideal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ideal. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on ideal

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