1
as in backdrop
the physical conditions or features that form the setting against which something is viewed they got married on a mountain top with the sunset as background

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2
as in setting
the place and time in which the action for a portion of a dramatic work (as a movie) is set the background of that movie is the World War II era

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How is the word background distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of background are environment, milieu, mise-en-scène, and setting. While all these words mean "the place, time, and circumstances in which something occurs," background often refers to the circumstances or events that precede a phenomenon or development.

the shocking decision was part of the background of the riots

Where would environment be a reasonable alternative to background?

While the synonyms environment and background are close in meaning, environment applies to all the external factors that have a formative influence on one's physical, mental, or moral development.

the kind of environment that produces juvenile delinquents

When is it sensible to use milieu instead of background?

The synonyms milieu and background are sometimes interchangeable, but milieu applies especially to the physical and social surroundings of a person or group of persons.

an intellectual milieu conducive to artistic experimentation

In what contexts can mise-en-scène take the place of background?

Although the words mise-en-scène and background have much in common, mise-en-scène strongly suggests the use of properties to achieve a particular atmosphere or theatrical effect.

a gothic thriller with a carefully crafted mise-en-scène

When could setting be used to replace background?

The meanings of setting and background largely overlap; however, setting suggests looking at real-life situations in literary or dramatic terms.

a militant reformer who was born into an unlikely social setting

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 background But their rigid version of legality only applies to immigrants from underprivileged backgrounds, those who have no choice but to cross borders without documents in order to survive, to aspire to a dignified life. Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2025 The Star-Telegram published a series of viewpoints from citizens of diverse backgrounds in education, business, banking, and science, with each reflecting on how their fields benefited from the arts. Sara Pezzoni, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 June 2025 Cocktails are also topflight, as would be expected with Khan’s background. Laurie Werner, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025 Models were usually shot against plain studio backgrounds in heavy makeup and statement jewelry. Cnn.com Wire Service, Mercury News, 28 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for background
Recent Examples of Synonyms for background
Noun
  • The rooftop pool in particular offered the perfect backdrop to showcase Missoni’s iconic color, pattern, and playfulness in an elevated, unexpected setting.
    Yola Robert, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025
  • While the home's backdrop is primarily neutral tones, Melissa kept things lively by incorporating collections, mix-and-match throw pillows, art, and fabrics throughout.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 9 July 2025
Noun
  • The party was held in an outdoor setting that had a blue and white balloon arch and cake bearing the same colors.
    Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 1 July 2025
  • The assortment was developed in tandem with the Nordstrom team with Shanker carefully considering which of her brands made sense to showcase in a new larger setting.
    Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • Academics and extracurriculars require a lot of planning, but the Southern college social scene inspires its own kind of coordination.
    Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 29 June 2025
  • The most famous scene is when Anne Archer (playing Douglas' wife) discovers the family's pet bunny boiled in a pot.
    Jordan Hoffman, EW.com, 29 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Background.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/background. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

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