BEGINNER Synonyms: 38 Similar and Opposite Words

beginner

noun

bi-ˈgi-nər

Definition of beginner

as in novice

a person who is just starting out in a field of activity although our son is only a beginner at swimming, he is making excellent progress

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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 beginner The Ordinary denotes this serum as a high-strength retinol formula suitable for people who have already built up a tolerance to lower-concentration retinol products, such as the brand’s beginner and intermediate serums. — Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 18 Aug. 2026 For beginners, the Jordan Pond Path is a mostly flat hike with wooden walkways and bridges—ideal for a photo op. — Morgan Rizzo, Travel + Leisure, 16 Aug. 2026 For absolute beginners, Quynh advises trying liquid concealer first. — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 15 Aug. 2026 The workshop offers instruction for various levels, including beginner and intermediate. — Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for beginner

Recent Examples of Synonyms for beginner

Noun

Professional and novice astronomers alike are getting excited about the partial lunar eclipse.

— Julia Gomez, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026
But for a novice, relying on AI before mastering the fundamentals creates a technical debt that leads to a lack of depth.

— Jason Corso, Time, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of novice

Noun

Two other newcomers, Jovaughn Gwyn and Ethan Pocic, remain in the mix for the starting spot.

— CBS News, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026
The Dynamo completed a season sweep after beating the Whitecaps 1-0 at home in May on a goal by newcomer Guilherme Santos six minutes into second-half stoppage time.

— ABC News, ABC News, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of newcomer

Noun

The construction of the statue, completed in 1852, involved an enslaved apprentice.

— Kelsey Ables, The Atlantic, 20 Aug. 2026
During his first two years as a starter, Santori was the apprentice who carefully studied the game and developed organically under the influence of his older peers.

— Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2026

Definition of apprentice

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beginners

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“Beginner.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/beginner. Accessed 27 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of beginner

noun

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