Synonyms of instrument

instrument

noun

ˈin(t)-strə-mənt 

1

as in certificate

a written or printed paper giving information about or proof of something

a valid will is a legal instrument

Synonyms & Similar Words

• certificate
• certification
• document
• diploma
• record
• credentials
• warrant
• warranty
• parchment
• writ
• coupon
• voucher

2

as in tool

an article intended for use in work

always choose the right instrument for any woodworking job

Synonyms & Similar Words

• tool
• device
• implement
• utensil
• mechanism
• apparatus
• gadget
• appliance
• accessory
• contraption
• appendage
• gizmo
• contrivance
• adjunct
• attachment
• jigger
• accoutrement

3

as in instrumentality

something used to achieve an end

he sees scouting as an instrument for building character in young people

Synonyms & Similar Words

• instrumentality
• means
• vehicle
• agent
• organ
• tool
• mechanism
• machinery
• factor
• power
• incentive
• agency
• ministry
• ingredient
• influence
• weapon
• medium
• determinant
• reason
• impetus
• cause
• catalyst
• driver
• generator
• stimulus
• executor
• trigger
• inspiration
• antecedent
• activator
• expedient
• occasion
• launcher
• mover
• instigation
• instigator
• animator
• energizer
• subagent
• subagency

4

as in pawn

one that is or can be used to further the purposes of another

the claim that the scientists are mere instruments of the tobacco companies, who pay them to produce findings that are highly suspect

Synonyms & Similar Words

• tool
• pawn
• victim
• puppet
• minion
• sucker
• lay figure
• cat's-paw
• foil
• gull
• dupe
• chump
• stooge
• yes-man
• lapdog

Synonym Chooser

How is the word instrument different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of instrument are appliance, implement, tool, and utensil. While all these words mean "a relatively simple device for performing work," instrument suggests a device capable of delicate or precise work.

the dentist's instruments

When can appliance be used instead of instrument?

The words appliance and instrument can be used in similar contexts, but appliance refers to a tool or instrument utilizing a power source and suggests portability or temporary attachment.

household appliances

When could implement be used to replace instrument?

While the synonyms implement and instrument are close in meaning, implement may apply to anything necessary to perform a task.

crude stone implements

farm implements

How are the words tool and implement related as synonyms of instrument?

Tool suggests an implement adapted to facilitate a definite kind or stage of work and suggests the need of skill more strongly than implement.

a carpenter's tools

When is utensil a more appropriate choice than instrument?

The synonyms utensil and instrument are sometimes interchangeable, but utensil applies to a device used in domestic work or some routine unskilled activity.

kitchen utensils

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of instrument

That owes much to guests such as Shahzad Ismaily, Laurie Anderson, Leo Abrahams, and musicians from Mali playing instruments such as the ngoni, calabash, and yabara. — Stephen Humphries, Christian Science Monitor, 31 July 2026

During Pan’s operation, Kwan-Feinberg sat at a console and used hand and foot controls to guide the robot’s small 3D camera and surgical instruments through an inclusion beneath each arm. — Martha Ross, Mercury News, 30 July 2026

Adults can learn to play an instrument at any age, and the process gives your brain a new challenge while giving you a creative outlet. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 30 July 2026

Until then, every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening, musicians still tune their instruments and families still wander in. — Janay Kingsberry, The Atlantic, 30 July 2026