Definition of awarenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective aware contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of aware are alive, awake, cognizant, conscious, and sensible. While all these words mean "having knowledge of something," aware implies vigilance in observing or alertness in drawing inferences from what one experiences.

aware of changes in climate

How are the words alive and sensible related as synonyms of aware?

Alive adds to sensible the implication of acute sensitivity to something.

alive to the thrill of danger

When could awake be used to replace aware?

While the synonyms awake and aware are close in meaning, awake implies that one has become alive to something and is on the alert.

a country always awake to the threat of invasion

When might cognizant be a better fit than aware?

While in some cases nearly identical to aware, cognizant implies having special or certain knowledge as from firsthand sources.

not fully cognizant of the facts

When is it sensible to use conscious instead of aware?

In some situations, the words conscious and aware are roughly equivalent. However, conscious implies that one is focusing one's attention on something or is even preoccupied by it.

conscious that my heart was pounding

In what contexts can sensible take the place of aware?

The words sensible and aware are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sensible implies direct or intuitive perceiving especially of intangibles or of emotional states or qualities.

sensible of a teacher's influence

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 aware Garner, who was aware of the online harassment, contacted Jane Doe and offered his legal help. — Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 9 Oct. 2026 Good e-Reader says that Amazon is aware of the issue and has confirmed that a manufacturing issue may have led to defects in the current batch of Kindles. — Terrence O'Brien, The Verge, 9 Oct. 2026 Be aware that a partner, spouse or close friend might surprise you today. — Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 9 Oct. 2026 Middle school students and preteens, ages 8 to 13, are likely aware of how their lives are different from their civilian peers. — Nikki R Wooten, The Conversation, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for aware
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aware
Adjective
  • But today’s trend-conscious younger Americans are thinking beyond looks.
    — Steven John, Fortune, 10 Oct. 2026
  • These primitive instincts are highly attuned to potential danger and are often triggered before our conscious mind registers that something isn’t right.
    — Georgia Casey, Allure, 9 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • For instance, did the Soviets invade Afghanistan out of (a) fear of Muslim insurgency, (b) Iran-cognizant Realpolitik or (c) lust for a port on the Persian Gulf?
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Sep. 2026
  • Words can cut deeply from Mercury’s moonwalk in Scorpio, so be cognizant of their ability to contribute to already fraught and tense situations.
    — Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 22 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The mindful alignment of body and mind is the guiding maxim of the spa.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Cramer said investors also must be mindful of Grail's valuation as a money-losing company.
    — Alexa LoMonaco, CNBC, 6 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • People connected to Democratic fundraising tell CNBC some major donors remain wary after Harris’ 2024 presidential defeat.
    — Luke Fountain, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Drivers have learned to be wary of instructions from mapping apps.
    — Shay Rabineau, The Conversation, 8 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Aware.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aware. Accessed 13 Oct. 2026.

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