Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective adventurous contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adventurous are daredevil, daring, foolhardy, rash, reckless, and venturesome. While all these words mean "exposing oneself to danger more than required by good sense," adventurous implies a willingness to accept risks but not necessarily imprudence.

adventurous pioneers

When would daredevil be a good substitute for adventurous?

The words daredevil and adventurous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, daredevil stresses ostentation in daring.

daredevil motorcyclists

When is it sensible to use daring instead of adventurous?

In some situations, the words daring and adventurous are roughly equivalent. However, daring implies fearlessness in courting danger.

daring mountain climbers

When can foolhardy be used instead of adventurous?

The words foolhardy and adventurous can be used in similar contexts, but foolhardy suggests a recklessness that is inconsistent with good sense.

the foolhardy sailor ventured into the storm

When is rash a more appropriate choice than adventurous?

While in some cases nearly identical to adventurous, rash suggests imprudence and lack of forethought.

a rash decision

When could reckless be used to replace adventurous?

Although the words reckless and adventurous have much in common, reckless implies heedlessness of probable consequences.

a reckless driver

In what contexts can venturesome take the place of adventurous?

The synonyms venturesome and adventurous are sometimes interchangeable, but venturesome implies a jaunty eagerness for perilous undertakings.

venturesome stunt pilots

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 adventurous From the moment Ginny is brought into the fold in Episode 3, Nick's pals struggle to accept his bright and adventurous new girlfriend. Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 3 May 2025 The love planet takes on a bold, adventurous and passionate flavor when sizzling through Aries. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 2 May 2025 And if Mom is an adventurous spirit that likes trying new sips, UME’s the move. Lanee Lee, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 In addition to spiritually healing through prayer, worship, time at the spas, and meditation, Henson also leaned into her adventurous side by trying fun activities, such as a ‘swing dress’ shoot set in a picturesque valley, which completely challenged her fear of heights. Dominique Fluker, Essence, 1 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for adventurous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adventurous
Adjective
  • Blending skill, grace and the daring pursuit of the ultimate underwater thrill, five divers—all trained by a world-class underwater choreographer—will compete to show off their skills during epic underwater dances.
    Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 14 May 2025
  • The decision comes after years of increasingly daring celebrity outfits and adds to the ongoing discussion among fashion enthusiasts on social media — Is fashion becoming more conservative?
    Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • The healthcare system is filled with bold promises and complicated policies.
    William Jones, USA Today, 14 May 2025
  • Shoppers can choose between neutral hues including ivory, navy, and brown, or opt for bold yellow, red, or green.
    Maggie Horton, People.com, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • The segment famously saw Piper remove Gowen's prosthetic leg, instantly establishing his courageous character.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 May 2025
  • The event series is based on The Old Testament’s Book of Genesis and told through the eyes of the courageous and passionate, yet flawed women whose descendants would shape three of the world’s great faiths: Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
    Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • Inspired by the fearless warrior women of Norse mythology, the Golden State Valkyries represent strength, confidence, and forward momentum.
    Jenn Nelson, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025
  • Star Wars fans can be a finicky bunch, but Tony Gilroy has been fearless, much like the series creator George Lucas, in delivering to them.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • Be brave and have an honest conversation with your spouse.
    Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 2 May 2025
  • To all candidates, campaign volunteers and election workers who participated in this election: thank you for your contribution to our democratic process, one that so many brave Canadians have sacrificed so much to defend.
    Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • The newly-hyperactive Apple and Amazon, which control relatively few franchises, are more adventuresome with originals than the older studios.
    Peter Bart, Deadline, 24 Apr. 2025
  • However, college kids and teens are adventuresome travel companions who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, fine dining, and cool shopping.
    Jackie Burrell, Parents, 29 July 2024
Adjective
  • That Lovett is enterprising — an innovator, if a macabre one; this Lovett struggles to stay afloat.
    Jennifer Harlan, New York Times, 4 May 2025
  • Modi’s government has targeted enterprising editors as well.
    Andrew Marantz, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • To tell the story of a middle-aged man’s impulsive leap into restaurant ownership, he’s gathered an accomplished cast wielding effortless charm.
    Sheri Linden, HollywoodReporter, 8 May 2025
  • Could this change in spending from non-essential items to more essential ones mean a realignment away from impulsive internet purchases and toward more bare essentials?
    Roger Valdez, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adventurous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adventurous. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

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