Synonym Chooser

How is the word bland different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of bland are diplomatic, politic, smooth, suave, and urbane. While all these words mean "pleasantly tactful and well-mannered," bland emphasizes mildness of manner and absence of irritating qualities.

a bland master of ceremonies

When is diplomatic a more appropriate choice than bland?

The meanings of diplomatic and bland largely overlap; however, diplomatic stresses an ability to deal with ticklish situations tactfully.

a diplomatic negotiator

When could politic be used to replace bland?

Although the words politic and bland have much in common, politic implies shrewd as well as tactful and suave handling of people.

a cunningly politic manager

Where would smooth be a reasonable alternative to bland?

The synonyms smooth and bland are sometimes interchangeable, but smooth suggests often a deliberately assumed suavity.

a smooth salesman

When can suave be used instead of bland?

While in some cases nearly identical to bland, suave suggests a specific ability to deal with others easily and without friction.

a suave public relations coordinator

In what contexts can urbane take the place of bland?

While the synonyms urbane and bland are close in meaning, urbane implies high cultivation and poise coming from wide social experience.

an urbane traveler

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 bland That will sell bland, overpriced tacos and micheladas at the stadium and not blink — hey, at least Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are still cheap. Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 21 June 2025 Beautify the Inside of Your Cleaning Closet Speaking of cleaning closets: Just because it’s hidden behind a door doesn’t mean this essential space needs to be bland. Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 June 2025 The dining room now, as shown in the latest listing photos, is notably brighter, if also more bland, with less furniture. Kim Velsey, Curbed, 22 May 2025 The technology could actually pressure speakers to focus on practical, actionable content rather than bland, general advice. Roger Dooley, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for bland
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bland
Adjective
  • There is something very soothing about sitting down and putting pen to paper, like drinking a hot cup of tea or relaxing in a sauna.
    Nancy Marshall, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
  • Veterinary Vision says that hearing your voice is very soothing for blind dogs, so talking to your pup often can help comfort them.
    Maria Azzurra Volpe, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 June 2025
Adjective
  • Through its busy streets, the Ford Ranger PHEV emitted a gentle hum at low speeds and easily handled deep road ruts and drain covers with little fuss.
    Matthew MacConnell, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
  • Don't boil for too long: Keep the liquid at a gentle simmer, and cook the ribs just until tenderized.
    Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 23 June 2025
Adjective
  • Scroll to shop the best bond-building products for every texture—stronger and softer hair ahead!
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 26 June 2025
  • Pottery Barn Airy Cotton Duvet Cover Crafted from 100 percent cotton, this 200-thread count duvet cover is breathable, low-maintenance, soft, and suitable for year-round use.
    Maggie Horton, People.com, 26 June 2025
Adjective
  • Creamy and mellow—perfect for those new to bourbon.
    Emily Price, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
  • Three-time Grammy winner Bad Bunny joins the cast as Happy's new caddy, while Kevin Nealon returns as mellow pro golfer Gary Potter, now shining as a golf reporter.
    Allison DeGrushe Published, EW.com, 19 June 2025
Adjective
  • Their grass-like hollow leaves have a mild onion flavor and are common in salads and dips.
    Steve Bender, Southern Living, 29 June 2025
  • After the Animal Kingdom star shaved his head for another role, Williamson had a mild freakout.
    Allison DeGrushe Published, EW.com, 29 June 2025
Adjective
  • Only 2 percent of cockroach species are pests, while the other 7,000 or so species are benign, Ware says.
    Madeline Bodin, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 June 2025
  • Why Is Important for Parents to Be Aware of Bop House Content On most social media platforms, The Bop House’s content is relatively benign, usually taking the form of TikTok dances and games or an inside look at special events, like their private jet trip to the Super Bowl.
    Stephanie Ganz, Parents, 26 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Bland.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bland. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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