Synonym Chooser

How is the word affix distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of affix are attach, fasten, and fix. While all these words mean "to make something stay firmly in place," affix implies an imposing of one thing on another by gluing, impressing, or nailing.

affix your address label here

When can attach be used instead of affix?

The words attach and affix are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, attach suggests a connecting or uniting by a bond, link, or tie in order to keep things together.

attach the W-2 form here

When is it sensible to use fasten instead of affix?

The synonyms fasten and affix are sometimes interchangeable, but fasten implies an action such as tying, buttoning, nailing, locking, or otherwise securing.

fasten the reins to a post

When might fix be a better fit than affix?

While in some cases nearly identical to affix, fix usually implies a driving in, implanting, or embedding.

fixed the stake in the ground

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 affix There, a worn stop-work order was affixed to the door of a three-story brick building. Matthew Sedacca, Curbed, 28 Mar. 2025 As progressives began mounting protests against Israel’s response in Gaza, his father affixed an Israeli flag to his car, Jacob recalled. Andrew Lapin, Sun Sentinel, 24 Mar. 2025 And, crucially, the spindle that connects the blade to the motor isn’t permanently affixed to the machine’s base (as is the case with most food processors), but rather attaches to the inside of the bowl. Wilder Davies, Bon Appétit, 21 Mar. 2025 The loss is still there, permanently affixed like that sticky note. Kristina Goetz, USA Today, 13 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for affix
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affix
attach
Verb
  • From that point on, they've been practically attached at the hip, often dressing alike and taking in Broadway musicals.
    Glamour, Glamour, 4 May 2025
  • But leadership responsibilities are attached to the position that are also important.
    Michael-Shawn Dugar, New York Times, 3 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 17 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on affix

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