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Synonym Chooser

How is the word unnatural distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words anomalous and irregular are common synonyms of unnatural. While all three words mean "not conforming to rule, law, or custom," unnatural suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society.

prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty

When could anomalous be used to replace unnatural?

The meanings of anomalous and unnatural largely overlap; however, anomalous implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence.

her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization

When is irregular a more appropriate choice than unnatural?

The words irregular and unnatural are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, irregular implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct.

concerned about his irregular behavior

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 unnatural But a stomach sleeping position can also lock your feet in an unnatural position—think about how your toes have to curl under, the tops of them pressing against your mattress. Erica Sloan, SELF, 20 June 2025 Because the bear started seeking out an unnatural food source, it was euthanized for safety reasons, officials said. Helena Wegner, Idaho Statesman, 27 June 2025 For too long, sunscreen hasn’t worked for melanin-rich skin—leaving behind white casts, greasy residue, or an unnatural gray tint. Essence, 24 June 2025 There is nothing deficient, unnatural or pitiful about being single, as we’re often led to believe. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for unnatural
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unnatural
Adjective
  • This mutation produces an abnormal transthyretin (TTR) protein that misfolds and forms amyloid deposits in the heart.
    Patty Weasler, Verywell Health, 14 July 2025
  • Retinopathy of prematurity is an eye disease that impacts premature babies and occurs when there is abnormal growth of the blood vessels in the retina.
    Ramal Nasim Updated July 14, Kansas City Star, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • But not Hochman, whose strained diplomacy has raised eyebrows.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2025
  • The story of Mbappe’s move to the Bernabeu last summer and his strained relations with PSG could fill several tomes, given the intensity of Madrid’s almost decade-long pursuit of the forward — and the fallout continues to this day.
    Adam Crafton, New York Times, 8 July 2025
Adjective
  • The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration report said that driver also made a false report related to hours of service.
    Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 July 2025
  • His claims are false and do not reflect accountability for the impact of his actions on the community.
    Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 3 July 2025
Adjective
  • In a recent mock draft, Baseball America speculated the Sox would select Florida State left-hander Jamie Arnold if the run on prep shortstops left him on the board.
    Phil Rogers, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
  • This time, he was invited to continue in the selection process, which included another test over Zoom with about 30 other hopeful applicants, a personality interview and a virtual mock game.
    Nour Rahal, Freep.com, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • While trace amounts may still be naturally present in some foods, the ban has virtually eliminated artificial trans fats.
    Brittany Poulson, People.com, 8 July 2025
  • The man died before artificial mummification became widespread in Egypt, according to the statement.
    Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • Driving through deep water can also negatively affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 10 July 2025
  • Things like robot bartenders, a remarkable sightseeing capsule that rises on a 300-foot-long mechanical arm, and an extensive array of exciting activities are now available within driving distance.
    Erica Silverstein, Travel + Leisure, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • There’s a massive global scam operation that uses real payment methods on fake checkout pages.
    Kim Komando The Kim Komando Show, FOXNews.com, 12 July 2025
  • Additional increases in the quantity and quality of weapons sent to Ukraine would underpin that message and would have a better chance than anything else of persuading Putin to replace fake negotiations with the real thing.
    The Editors, National Review, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • Skinny brows, an exaggerated cat-eye, and a rich red lip added to the maximalist Parisian glamour.
    Kara Nesvig, Allure, 9 July 2025
  • Reports of Craig Robinson's retirement from comedy have been greatly exaggerated.
    Shania Russell, EW.com, 9 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on unnatural

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