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Synonym Chooser

How is the word dramatic distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of dramatic are histrionic, melodramatic, and theatrical. While all these words mean "having a character or an effect like that of acted plays," dramatic applies to situations in life and literature that stir the imagination and emotions deeply.

a dramatic meeting of world leaders

In what contexts can histrionic take the place of dramatic?

Although the words histrionic and dramatic have much in common, histrionic applies to tones, gestures, and motions and suggests a deliberate affectation or staginess.

a histrionic show of grief

When would melodramatic be a good substitute for dramatic?

While in some cases nearly identical to dramatic, melodramatic suggests an exaggerated emotionalism or an inappropriate theatricalism.

made a melodramatic plea

When can theatrical be used instead of dramatic?

While the synonyms theatrical and dramatic are close in meaning, theatrical implies a crude appeal through artificiality or exaggeration in gesture or vocal expression.

a theatrical oration

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 dramatic The shift is even more dramatic for Tom. Chris O'Falt, IndieWire, 8 Oct. 2025 But when faced with temptation, players driven by curiosity, suspicion, and revenge make dramatic choices to survive to the end. Leo Barraclough, Variety, 8 Oct. 2025 Be sure to have your cameras ready for the dramatic cliffs and wildlife sightings. Acacia Gabriel, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2025 Laidback Fun The crystal blue waters of the Sea of Cortez provided dramatic views from our suite’s balcony and easygoing beach days. Jasmine Purdie, Parents, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dramatic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dramatic
Adjective
  • As far as the sustainability of humanity's energy consumption, Cohan said, the world is on the verge of making noticeable gains in protecting the environment from fossil fuel use.
    Alana Wise, NPR, 9 Oct. 2025
  • The immediate post-facial glow was noticeable, but the more gradual improvements came from regular, at-home use.
    Samantha Leal, StyleCaster, 9 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The hard-hitting police brutality drama was released in 2018 simultaneously in Italian cinemas and on Netflix, sparking controversy from distributors in Italy who clamored for a theatrical window.
    Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Launched by former Sideshow executive Jason Hellerstein in February, with backing from a group of private investors led by Alex Lo’s Cinema Inutile, 1-2 Special is one a pack of new theatrical-first distributors looking to carve out a space in the domestic market.
    Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 9 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Gruda, signed from Mainz for £25million in August 2024, has been more prominent in Hurzeler’s attacking plans in his second season at the club, scoring twice and contributing two assists across eight appearances in the Premier League and the Carabao Cup.
    Andy Naylor, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025
  • As far as politicians go, few have earned as much respect among Palestinians as Marwan Barghouti, the most prominent Palestinian prisoner who is serving five life sentences in an Israeli jail.
    Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Italian operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti and Canadian rocker Bryan Adams played the venue, too.
    Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 3 Oct. 2025
  • This musical blends gospel and Motown with operatic stylings to illuminate the changing times of the Civil Rights era while examining social and familial issues still prevalent today.
    Meredith G. White, AZCentral.com, 1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The Dodgers’ mood after Game 2 was one of jubilation, a remarkable conclusion to an enthralling game.
    Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025
  • The Sennheiser Momentum 4 are top-level headphones, boasting a remarkable 60-hour battery life, rich and detailed sound, and adaptive ANC that just works, all while being light enough for all-day use.
    Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 7 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Instead, Reeves became Estragon, the more simplistic and long-suffering of the duo, while Winter tackled Vladimir, the more commanding and verbose character.
    Brent Lang, Variety, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Since the late 90s, Jungen has forged a name for himself internationally through his commanding sculptural practice.
    News Desk, Artforum, 29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The hulking forward later put the game away with an empty-netter, courtesy of another nifty feed from Malkin, who was one of the game’s most impressive players and finished with two primary assists.
    Josh Yohe, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025
  • Both songs appear to be passionate ballads by the two impressive vocalists, with Erivo lending her melodic riff to Dorothy’s iconic line.
    Rachel McRady, PEOPLE, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Condon wanted to evoke a similar surprise by having Lopez's Ingrid Luna/Aurora go the same striking shade of blonde.
    Maureen Lee Lenker, Entertainment Weekly, 11 Oct. 2025
  • Buildings such as the Paramount Ballroom, the French-Renaissance style Wukang Mansion and the Peace Hotel by the Bund are among the most striking examples of the period.
    Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 11 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Dramatic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dramatic. Accessed 13 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on dramatic

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