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Synonym Chooser

How is the word dramatic distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of dramatic are histrionic, melodramatic, and theatrical. While all these words mean "having a character or an effect like that of acted plays," dramatic applies to situations in life and literature that stir the imagination and emotions deeply.

a dramatic meeting of world leaders

In what contexts can histrionic take the place of dramatic?

Although the words histrionic and dramatic have much in common, histrionic applies to tones, gestures, and motions and suggests a deliberate affectation or staginess.

a histrionic show of grief

When would melodramatic be a good substitute for dramatic?

While in some cases nearly identical to dramatic, melodramatic suggests an exaggerated emotionalism or an inappropriate theatricalism.

made a melodramatic plea

When can theatrical be used instead of dramatic?

While the synonyms theatrical and dramatic are close in meaning, theatrical implies a crude appeal through artificiality or exaggeration in gesture or vocal expression.

a theatrical oration

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 dramatic Three dramatic swooping bars, a marble dance floor, and a game room with a shuffleboard table speak to its party-ready pedigree. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 3 Sep. 2025 The stakes today may feel less dramatic, but the principle is the same. Aron Solomon september 3, Literary Hub, 3 Sep. 2025 So where does this character, Ned, fall in difficulty compared to some of your more dramatic characters? H. Alan Scott, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Sep. 2025 Which is why his dramatic and tragic unraveling — first professional, then personal — has been so unsettling to those who knew and came to rely on him. Gary Baum, HollywoodReporter, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dramatic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dramatic
Adjective
  • After a noticeable drop in school attendance due to SEPTA cuts in the first week of the new school year, the city directed a portion of its $135 million transit subsidy to restore bus and trolley service on routes that are heavily used by students.
    Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2025
  • The ears of a young ram are more noticeable than those of an old ram, whose ears are largely concealed by the massive horns.
    Tim Kelly, Outdoor Life, 4 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Up until that point, Oscar gowns had often been the purview of costume departments and more theatrical designers (save an occasional visit by a Givenchy).
    Belinda Luscombe, Time, 5 Sep. 2025
  • Zhou’s theatrical vision explores humor, sensuality, and existential themes, resulting in garments that blur the boundaries of fashion, sculpture, and spectacle.
    Essence, Essence, 4 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Labubu is a doll that resembles a monster, featuring a large head, sharp teeth and prominent eyes.
    Julia Gomez, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2025
  • High-power microwave system One of the most prominent formations at the parade highlighted China’s growing emphasis on counter-drone warfare, a domain increasingly central to modern combat.
    Kapil Kajal, Interesting Engineering, 3 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Dido’s wonderfully operatic dying curse on her former lover foreshadows the future wars between her people and the descendants of the treacherous Trojans.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 3 Sep. 2025
  • As the sun sets, the towers shift color to the operatic soundscape by composer Orlando Gough.
    Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • The zoo said parthenogenesis has only been documented in a handful of reptile species worldwide, making this birth even more remarkable.
    Saleen Martin, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2025
  • And yet in restructuring Patagonia to ensure that its profits are used to protect wild lands, Chouinard accomplished something remarkable, turning a for-profit corporation with $1 billion in annual sales into one of the biggest environmental philanthropies in the country.
    David Gelles, Time, 9 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Meghan is more commanding and confident this time around—her preppy-chic wardrobe and carefully curated soundtrack add polish, while the guest lineup gives the show depth and warmth.
    Sophia A. Nelson, Forbes.com, 26 Aug. 2025
  • The New York Yankees once had a commanding lead in the American League East.
    Aaliyan Mohammed, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Dart was widely impressive in OTAs and minicamp and training camp.
    Kevin McCormick, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Following her loss to Nunes, Shevchenko dropped to 125 pounds and went on one of the most impressive runs in the history of the UFC women’s divisions.
    Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • In the most striking example, DOGE instructed Dudek to cancel two contracts that the SSA had with the state of Maine, according to Dudek and other SSA officials.
    Eli Hager, ProPublica, 8 Sep. 2025
  • With Saturn nearing its brightest, biggest and best for 2025, expect a striking pairing in the east that will be worth getting outside for.
    Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Dramatic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dramatic. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

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