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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 In an alternative '90s, dark waters from the underground scientific facility have risen to flood the town and deliver a menagerie of natural and unnatural nightmares. Jeff Spry, Space.com, 11 Apr. 2025 In this type of thinking, the desire to be alone is seen as unnatural and unhealthy, something to be pitied or feared rather than valued or encouraged. Virginia Thomas, The Conversation, 4 Apr. 2025 Rodeos are built on animal exploitation and involve forcing animals into confusing, unnatural and painful situations for human amusement. U T Readers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Mar. 2025 The binary categorization served as a tool to vilify some foreigners as unnatural immigrants and justify their exclusion. Made By History, Time, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unnatural
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unnatural
Adjective
  • Research indicates that girls with autism have higher rates of abnormal hormonal changes, including irregular menstrual cycles, cramps, acne, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) than girls without autism.
    Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 21 Apr. 2025
  • In some cases, the procedure can even identify, diagnose and treat things like abnormal growths all in one procedure.
    Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Forbes reported that the relationship between Natalia and the Mans family became strained in 2023, the same year the couple officially adopted her.
    Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Apr. 2025
  • Overtourism is a serious concern, particularly for smaller ports, where large crowds can have a significant impact, leading to strained infrastructure and affecting local quality of life.
    Jessica Benavides Canepa, AFAR Media, 17 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Last year’s 17-9 start proved to be a false spring, one that lulled fans into thinking Craig Counsell replacing David Ross was the real difference between an 83-win Cubs team and the postseason.
    Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Trump’s false assertions about the outcome of the 2020 election ultimately led a crowd of supporters to storm the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, temporarily disrupting the certification of Biden’s win.
    Elizabeth Crisp, The Hill, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Some mock drafts had the Steelers taking a running back like Omarion Hampton in the first round.
    Tom Rogers, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Congratulations to all the top scorers who competed against 1,527 mock drafts!
    Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 29 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • From factory employees in China stringing lights on artificial trees to dock workers unloading containers of toys, this vast labor force ensures Americans can choose from a wide selection of decorations and gifts each December.
    Zeyi Yang, Wired News, 28 Apr. 2025
  • The Real Cost of Making Things Hard When companies add artificial friction, they: CEO: C-suite news, analysis, and advice for top decision makers right to your inbox.
    Roger Dooley, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Traditional mechanical recycling can't handle this mess; DePoly’s low-cost, low-energy chemical process can.
    Marianne Lehnis, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025
  • Driving through deep water can also damage a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 29 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • With digital platforms flooded with bots and fake numbers, Kerns built his following and client base by offering true engagement, authority, and working systems.
    Rhiannon Frater, USA Today, 1 May 2025
  • Swatting is when a 911 call is made, usually to report a fake violent crime, to get police and sometimes even SWAT teams, to respond to the address given by the caller.
    Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 30 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Misleading claims or exaggerated job benefits could backfire and lead to reputational damage.
    Anthony Milewski, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025
  • Each thing serves as the cartoonishly exaggerated marker of an identity: berserker populist patriot, effete rich man, savvy dealmaker.
    Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 26 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Unnatural.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unnatural. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on unnatural

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