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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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 beginner The willingness to become a beginner again may be one of the most powerful ways to stay branchy. — Antonia Bowring, Forbes.com, 29 Sep. 2026 Generally, racehorses aren’t suitable for young children or beginners, and owners must have the space and wherewithal to feed and care for them, which can cost thousands of dollars a year. — Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 28 Sep. 2026 This arm-knitting technique is especially appealing for beginners, and the resulting oversized texture will look warm and welcoming draped over a sofa or chair. — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 27 Sep. 2026 Bam Bird Social aims to be a welcoming space for both beginners and longtime players. — Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 24 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for beginner

Recent Examples of Synonyms for beginner

Noun

In the latest, The Big Cats Dance Party, a high-profile case falls to a novice sleuth while the agency’s founder is away.

— The Week US, TheWeek, 5 Oct. 2026
To a novice taster, sipping out of a plastic Mets carafe, the wine smelled like dry grass and very ripe blackberries.

— Arthur Holland Michel, New Yorker, 28 Sep. 2026

Definition of novice

Noun

Then there is Nana (Erin Morton), sweet as pie and a newcomer to the group.

— Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 29 Sep. 2026
At 22, the Chilean singer-songwriter, most identifiable by her fire engine red tresses, is one of the most visionary newcomers in the latest wave of post-urbano Latin artists.

— Ernesto Lechner, Los Angeles Times, 29 Sep. 2026

Definition of newcomer

Noun

For carpenters, delays and poor weather conditions can disrupt the working hours apprentices need to complete their program, causing some to quit.

— Itzel Franco, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2026
More than half of the new money will go toward the CUNY Professional Development Institute to add 30 apprentices, doubling the total enrollment to 60 trainees, according to a press release shared with the Daily News ahead of the announcement.

— Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 2 Oct. 2026

Definition of apprentice

Noun

Promising freshman Olivia Vukosa, the incoming freshman from New York City’s Christ The King High, was the Big East Freshman of the Year.

— Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 2 Oct. 2026
Starting freshman tight end Mark Bowman was also listed as questionable on the report after catching six passes for 44 yards against Oregon and amassing the second-most receptions on the team overall with 21.

— Sean Campbell, Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2026

Definition of freshman

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begin

beginner

beginners

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“Beginner.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/beginner. Accessed 6 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of beginner

noun

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