Synonym Chooser

How is the word caprice distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of caprice are crotchet, vagary, and whim. While all these words mean "an irrational or unpredictable idea or desire," caprice stresses lack of apparent motivation and suggests willfulness.

by sheer caprice she quit her job

When could crotchet be used to replace caprice?

In some situations, the words crotchet and caprice are roughly equivalent. However, crotchet implies an eccentric opinion or preference.

a serious scientist equally known for his bizarre crotchets

Where would vagary be a reasonable alternative to caprice?

The words vagary and caprice can be used in similar contexts, but vagary stresses the erratic, irresponsible character of the notion or desire.

he had been prone to strange vagaries

When can whim be used instead of caprice?

The synonyms whim and caprice are sometimes interchangeable, but whim implies a fantastic, capricious turn of mind or inclination.

an odd antique that was bought on a whim

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 caprice An e-mail publication was invulnerable to the caprices of social-media platforms and their algorithms. Nathan Heller, The New Yorker, 15 Mar. 2025 But Cass is not the man to beat his head in bitterness over female caprice. Frank C. Hibben, Outdoor Life, 27 Feb. 2025 But all of this is merely the set-up for the major mishap that happens — a kind of cosmic caprice. Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 20 Feb. 2025 The whims and caprices of a volatile administration have given most of them a deep sense of insecurity. Marquis William Childs, Harper's Magazine, 19 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for caprice
Recent Examples of Synonyms for caprice
whim
Noun
  • Only 24% of voters today recognize that their future benefits are subject to the whims of Congress and the president.
    Scott Rasmussen, Boston Herald, 6 July 2025
  • There are only six seats and two nightly seatings Thursday to Saturday for tasting menus that are dictated by the seasons and the whims of the chef.
    Jennifer Kester, Forbes.com, 3 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Caprice.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/caprice. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on caprice

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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