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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
  • Because our first priority will be to respect the heritage of a race that’s almost two centuries old, a competition that brings together amateurs in the noblest sense — students of Oxford and Cambridge — and a level of professionalism and excellence that is worthy of the Olympic Games.
    Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 1 Apr. 2025
  • The story centers on Krem of the Yellow Hills, who kills an alien girl’s father, prompting her and Supergirl, accompanied by the noble Knolle, to embark on a pursuit for justice.
    Robert Lang, Deadline, 31 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Musk is an astonishing $147 billion richer this year.
    Roy Canivel, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025
  • That this change is reportedly being considered when Republicans hold a trifecta makes the whole thing more astonishing.
    The Editors, National Review, 1 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Temu and Shein have taken steps to grow their operations in the U.S. as the de minimis loophole has come under greater scrutiny.
    Annie Palmer, CNBC, 3 Apr. 2025
  • This assignment begins with secondary and higher educational institutions taking greater strides to enrich offerings civics instruction.
    Blake D. Morant, Forbes.com, 3 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
  • Shearing emphasized that there are no true winners in a tariff war, as higher prices harm consumers and disrupt global supply chains.
    Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 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
  • Who would have thought that Donald Trump would be the one to stop Tesla's amazing international sales run in its tracks?
    Charles Singh, USA Today, 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
  • That the 29-year-old was present, let alone capable of leading the celebrations, was nothing short of miraculous.
    Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 6 Apr. 2025
  • These days, the Hall of Famer is forging a new, post-football path. ➤ Barry Sanders: Lions turnaround has been 'miraculous': Speaking of 1990s pro football icons, Sanders' electrifying runs filled highlight reels.
    Jim Reineking, USA Today, 31 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sublime.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sublime. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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