Synonym Chooser

How is the word amuse different from other verbs like it?

The words divert and entertain are common synonyms of amuse. While all three words mean "to pass or cause to pass the time pleasantly," amuse suggests that one's attention is engaged lightly.

amuse yourselves while I make dinner

When might divert be a better fit than amuse?

While in some cases nearly identical to amuse, divert implies distracting attention from worry or routine occupation especially by something funny.

a light comedy to divert the tired businessman

Where would entertain be a reasonable alternative to amuse?

The words entertain and amuse are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, entertain suggests supplying amusement by specially contrived methods.

a magician entertaining children at a party

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 amuse Most were designed to amuse, but some WSC covers spoke better than a thousand words ever could, including arguably their finest effort in response to the Hillsborough disaster that saw 97 lives lost at the 1989 FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest. Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 7 June 2025 Fans were amused by his follow-up with the vacation picture. Marina Watts, People.com, 19 May 2025 Former Chiefs wide receiver Gehrig Dieter has been amusing himself on social media with posts that are clearly designed to troll Kansas City fans. Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 10 June 2025 Bugs are ubiquitous and range from amusing to annoying to downright game-breaking. Alan Bradley, Space.com, 2 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for amuse
Recent Examples of Synonyms for amuse
Verb
  • Being able to bring authentic mental health stories to life in a way that both resonates and entertains is an increasingly valuable skill, and one that can set you apart in today’s media landscape.
    Mena Mirhom, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
  • Hairpin turns and stressful pit stops go a long way toward entertaining F1 fans and neophytes alike, though melodrama and a bloated run time put the brakes on what should be a film that zips.
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 18 June 2025
Verb
  • These experts regaled the audience with historical facts and anecdotes about masterpieces from the heritage house of Cartier, which has amassed one of the world’s most artistically and historically important jewelry archives.
    Kyle Roderick, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
  • And yes, some plastic surgeons are apt to regale you with tales of their bespoke extended, vertical vector, composite flap, scarless, mystery, reset lift.
    Jolene Edgar, Allure, 28 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Amuse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/amuse. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.

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