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Synonym Chooser

How is the word conventional distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of conventional are ceremonial, ceremonious, and formal. While all these words mean "marked by attention to or adhering strictly to prescribed forms," conventional implies accord with general custom and usage and may suggest a stodgy lack of originality or independence.

conventional courtesy
conventional fiction

How are the words ceremonial and ceremonious related as synonyms of conventional?

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

When is it sensible to use ceremonious instead of conventional?

In some situations, the words ceremonious and conventional are roughly equivalent. However, ceremonious applies to persons given to ceremony or to acts attended by ceremony.

made his ceremonious entrance

Where would formal be a reasonable alternative to conventional?

The synonyms formal and conventional are sometimes interchangeable, but 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

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 conventional Swyft also lacked a mouse—or indeed any conventional means of moving the cursor around. Cameron Kaiser, ArsTechnica, 12 Sep. 2025 Harry was already a megastar, but with zero interest in following any kind of conventional career formula. Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 12 Sep. 2025 In addition to conventional risk factors, like lower body mass index and older age, skipping breakfast and eating dinner late are independently associated with osteoporosis, according to a new study. Shiv Sudhakar, FOXNews.com, 6 Sep. 2025 Such intimate screenings and parties will continue in different locations as the film makes its way into conventional theaters. Andrew McGowan, Variety, 6 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for conventional
Recent Examples of Synonyms for conventional
Adjective
  • For instance, if a wildfire—even if far away—coincides with weather systems blowing pollution into your region, AirNow’s email will recommend staying indoors more than usual.
    Matt Fuchs, Time, 10 Sep. 2025
  • As such, there’s always been a thrill of danger to every fight, but the difference this time around is that the stakes are far higher than usual.
    David Opie, IndieWire, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Red mesh iron bookshelves and traditional Italian kitchen towels suspended like airy curtains from the ceiling add to the quirky interior.
    Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Kirk capitalized on the widening gap to position himself as a conservative cultural authority on traditional values and religion.
    Rachel Hale, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The former officials’ attorneys, represented by former Hunter Biden attorney Abbe Lowell, are seeking back pay and a formal declaration that the firings were unlawful.
    Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 11 Sep. 2025
  • The proposal has not yet been presented to the FA Board and there has been no formal vote at EFL level, either.
    Matt Slater, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Arafat’s successor, current PA President Mahmoud Abbas, has banished and imprisoned opponents and critics.
    Sean Durns, The Washington Examiner, 12 Sep. 2025
  • The current Razorback defenders are well aware of the shortcomings in last year’s game.
    Tom Murphy, Arkansas Online, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Completion is subject to several customary conditions, including final approval by Kraft Heinz Board of Directors, the filing and effectiveness of a Form 10 registration statement with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.
    Joe Cornell, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Unfortunately, the bulk of the requisite moralizing falls mainly to Palmer’s socially conscious Elena, saddled with one too many speeches about making a difference, which puts a damper on the actress’ customary energetic spark.
    Michael Rechtshaffen, HollywoodReporter, 7 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Joining Muniz in the ceremonial duties were LL Cool J, David Arquette, and Mandy Moore.
    Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Rupert, now 94, will continue in a figurehead capacity as chairman emeritus of the companies, maintaining ceremonial leadership but no direct voting control.
    Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 8 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • And even though the military is short of manpower, the government refuses to draft ultra-orthodox men, whose religious political parties are key to the Netanyahu coalition.
    Ron Scherf, Time, 5 Sep. 2025
  • Traditional music and Kolo dancing by Prazna Flasa Tambura, the Ansambl Sokoli, the Seoske Dame singers, and DJ Dex, with a presentation from Parish Priest, Father Milos Zivkovic on orthodox religious traditions and specialty vendors with music, books, jewelry, and icons for sale.
    Gina Grillo, Chicago Tribune, 1 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The impressive organizational elements also make this option stand out when compared to standard purses.
    Rachel Trujillo, Travel + Leisure, 9 Sep. 2025
  • An article from the American Kennel Club (AKC) stated that mini dachshunds weigh about 11 pounds or under, and the standard size is, on average, 16 to 32 pounds.
    Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Conventional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/conventional. Accessed 16 Sep. 2025.

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