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Synonym Chooser

How is the word unnatural distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words anomalous and irregular are common synonyms of unnatural. While all three words mean "not conforming to rule, law, or custom," unnatural suggests what is contrary to nature or to principles or standards felt to be essential to the well-being of civilized society.

prisoners treated with unnatural cruelty

When could anomalous be used to replace unnatural?

The meanings of anomalous and unnatural largely overlap; however, anomalous implies not conforming to what might be expected because of the class or type to which it belongs or the laws that govern its existence.

her drive made her an anomalous figure in a sleepy organization

When is irregular a more appropriate choice than unnatural?

The words irregular and unnatural are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, irregular implies not conforming to a law or regulation imposed for the sake of uniformity in method, practice, or conduct.

concerned about his irregular behavior

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 unnatural Although nine-armed sea stars can regenerate limbs, the extreme tissue decay seen here suggests something far more severe and unnatural. Sonia Osorio, Miami Herald, 30 June 2025 As someone deeply independent, leaning on others felt unnatural at first. Tereza Shkurtaj, People.com, 22 June 2025 While some can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind. Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 11 July 2025 Even if that means stepping into a version of themselves that feels unnatural. Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for unnatural
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unnatural
Adjective
  • This mutation produces an abnormal transthyretin (TTR) protein that misfolds and forms amyloid deposits in the heart.
    Patty Weasler, Verywell Health, 14 July 2025
  • Retinopathy of prematurity is an eye disease that impacts premature babies and occurs when there is abnormal growth of the blood vessels in the retina.
    Ramal Nasim Updated July 14, Kansas City Star, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • There has been a gradual normalization of ties between India and China in recent months after relations were deeply strained in June 2020, when a brutal hand-to-hand battle in the Galwan Valley left at least 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers dead.
    Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 24 July 2025
  • The Taliban’s strained relationships with Iran and Pakistan further complicate reintegration efforts.
    Natasha Lindstaedt, Forbes.com, 17 July 2025
Adjective
  • Winfrey's spokesperson told Newsweek that these reports are false, and that the road will remain open as long as is necessary.
    Marni Rose McFall, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 July 2025
  • The company allegedly submitted false invoices to CBP while creating separate invoices that reflected the accurate price of the goods, which were used to collect payment from the end purchasers.
    Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 30 July 2025
Adjective
  • The analytics department had built a mock draft simulator to get a feel for how the board might shake out before the Panthers selected at their No. 57 spot.
    Mike Kaye July 22, Charlotte Observer, 22 July 2025
  • In early March, the command's fighter jets and a U.S. bomber carried out a mock interception over Alaska, showcasing its ability to defend the continent at a moment's notice.
    Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 July 2025
Adjective
  • The launch could help jumpstart sales for PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay portfolio that has come under pressure from changing consumer preferences and a crackdown on artificial ingredients.
    Jordan Valinsky, CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2025
  • No stone has been left unturned as windows of artificial buildings have curtains and flower boxes, manhole covers are set into the floor and custom scents waft through the air in each land, from warm woody notes to sweet candy aromas.
    Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 3 Aug. 2025
  • Vigilant use of mechanical (hoeing, pulling by hand) and chemical control, followed by organic mulches to smother growth, works best.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • How tariff news fuels some scams The Better Business Bureau warned earlier this summer that some scammers are using fake excuses involving delays caused by tariffs to cover up fraudulent online orders.
    Susan Tompor, Freep.com, 24 July 2025
  • Instead, the mysterious company started by a legislative aide under a fake name helped three people funnel more than $50,000 to two politicians and a top aide, federal prosecutors said.
    Craig Shoup, The Tennessean, 23 July 2025
Adjective
  • Israel says its forces have only fired warning shots and that the death toll is exaggerated.
    Wafaa Shurafa, Chicago Tribune, 23 July 2025
  • Teenage emotions are unpredictable and often exaggerated, so the end of a boy band who had consumed so much of my mind for so long was devastating.
    Sam Woodward, USA Today, 23 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Unnatural.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unnatural. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on unnatural

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