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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 But also: the romantic comedy might be the most sublime entertainment genre devised by humankind. Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 13 June 2025 Cinematographer Bill Pope photographs the rough and rugged terrain of Viking territory with an eye for its sublime beauty and staggering scale. Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 10 June 2025 For your downtime Going out Spas: 10 seriously sublime Palm Springs-area spas with day passes. Julia Wick, Los Angeles Times, 10 June 2025 But Castro isn’t punching you in the face with flavor; her style is subtle and sublime. Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for sublime
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sublime
Adjective
  • Royal titles are reserved for those born into or marrying into the family, while dukedoms and other noble titles are passed down through a family or granted by the reigning monarch.
    Stephanie Petit, People.com, 6 July 2025
  • He’s covered in sweat and using a scrap of cardboard as a fan—not for himself, but for the tides of people who pass him, in a noble effort to keep them cool.
    Richard Collett, Saveur, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • In fact, her record is astonishing as a manager at the Euros with 12 wins from 12 matches.
    Darren Richman, New York Times, 5 July 2025
  • The circle's latest trick in its astonishing 100-year history?
    Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • This is a great NBA Summer League matchup; make sure to tune in and catch all the action.
    Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025
  • Since there’s no adhesive involved in the grippy version, this silicone bra alternative is a great option for anyone with sensitive skin.
    Malia Griggs, Glamour, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • Colleagues, mentors and friends are wonderful sources of feedback.
    Kim Salem-Jackson, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Favorite collections: Dior, Willy Chavarria, Craig Green, Lemaire and Officine Générale Best show format: The glorious city of Paris and its surroundings were on wonderful display this show season.
    Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 30 June 2025
Adjective
  • Net profit slumped 11% in 2024 to 2.3 billion baht ($71 million) while revenue stagnated at 33 billion baht amid weak consumer spending and higher costs related to distribution, staffing and store openings.
    Gloria Haraito, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • Key stat Muncy tied his career high with seven RBIs.
    Greg Beacham, Chicago Tribune, 23 June 2025
Adjective
  • And equally amazing is the fact that the brooch or pin that Duguid wears in it on his coat survives and [was previously] displayed next to the painting.
    Karin Wulf, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 July 2025
  • Looking for an amazing place to celebrate the Fourth of July?
    Everett Potter, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • Fiennes exhibits that side of him without apology, which only makes his gallant side feel all the more genuine.
    Joe Reid, Vulture, 12 June 2025
  • Each year, Scouts, Scouters, veterans and other community groups from all over the Bay Area gather in tribute to these gallant men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country.
    Karl Mondon, Mercury News, 25 May 2025
Adjective
  • There's also a nod to the narrator's wife making an unexpected comeback late on, though Robbie's miraculous/implausible (delete as appropriate) return from the dead stretches credibility way past breaking point.
    Richard Edwards, Space.com, 29 June 2025
  • Considering her herculean effort and miraculous success, the speediness of her undoing is stunning.
    Literary Hub June 23, Literary Hub, 23 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sublime.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://x0upouf933.proxynodejs.usequeue.com/thesaurus/sublime. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

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