ceremonious

Synonym Chooser

How is the word ceremonious distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of ceremonious are ceremonial, conventional, and formal. While all these words mean "marked by attention to or adhering strictly to prescribed forms," ceremonious applies to persons given to ceremony or to acts attended by ceremony.

made his ceremonious entrance

How do ceremonial and ceremonious relate to one another?

Ceremonial and ceremonious both imply strict attention to what is prescribed by custom or by ritual, but ceremonial applies to things that are associated with ceremonies.

a ceremonial offering

Where would conventional be a reasonable alternative to ceremonious?

The words conventional and ceremonious can be used in similar contexts, but conventional implies accord with general custom and usage and may suggest a stodgy lack of originality or independence.

conventional courtesy
conventional fiction

When could formal be used to replace ceremonious?

Although the words formal and ceremonious have much in common, formal applies both to things prescribed by and to persons obedient to custom and may suggest stiff, restrained, or old-fashioned behavior.

a formal report
the headmaster's formal manner

Thesaurus Entries Near ceremonious

Cite this Entry

“Ceremonious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ceremonious. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

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