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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective grand differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of grand are grandiose, imposing, magnificent, majestic, and stately. While all these words mean "large and impressive," grand adds to greatness of size the implications of handsomeness and dignity.

a grand staircase

Where would grandiose be a reasonable alternative to grand?

In some situations, the words grandiose and grand are roughly equivalent. However, grandiose implies a size or scope exceeding ordinary experience, but is most commonly applied derogatorily to inflated pretension or absurd exaggeration.

grandiose hydroelectric projects
grandiose schemes

When can imposing be used instead of grand?

The meanings of imposing and grand largely overlap; however, imposing implies great size and dignity but especially stresses impressiveness.

an imposing edifice

When could magnificent be used to replace grand?

The words magnificent and grand can be used in similar contexts, but magnificent implies an impressive largeness proportionate to scale without sacrifice of dignity or good taste.

magnificent paintings

How does the word majestic relate to other synonyms for grand?

Majestic combines the implications of imposing and stately and usually adds a suggestion of solemn grandeur.

a majestic waterfall

When is it sensible to use stately instead of grand?

While the synonyms stately and grand are close in meaning, stately may suggest poised dignity, erectness of bearing, handsomeness of proportions, ceremonious deliberation of movement.

the stately procession

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 grand Feeling small and insignificant in the grand scheme of things, which makes those (difficult) parts feel small and less significant… less weighted. Chris Willman, Variety, 6 May 2025 In Season 4, present-day Máximo (Derbez) works tirelessly to restore Las Colinas to its former glory before the grand reopening. Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 6 May 2025 Ashford Castle – Ireland Originating from the 13th century, the magnificent Ashford Castle has a rich history, evolving from a medieval fortress to a grand luxury retreat adorned with antiques and artwork. Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025 No one knows how this grand experiment in raw geopolitical power politics will play out. Jonathan Swan, New York Times, 29 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for grand
Recent Examples of Synonyms for grand
Adjective
  • In an era that looked as if it might be defined by an American man of depraved cruelty, corruption, and shame, what a magnificent thing the Catholic Church has done.
    Jason Lemon, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 May 2025
  • One-day entry costs $60 ($25 for students), or $80 for unlimited visits through Tuesday, a modest price for a magnificent experience to see masterpieces that may be on view for the first or last time.
    Natasha Gural, Forbes.com, 10 May 2025
Adjective
  • Its main funders are the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW – and returning main partner ZDF Studios.
    Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 19 May 2025
  • Two main issues are conveyed: No credible debt management approach exists.
    Jim Osman, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • This year is turning into quite a headache not only for 818 Tequila, but for the whole industry.
    Jordan Valinsky, CNN Money, 18 May 2025
  • Activities include: Farm Tours: Have fun with the whole family and take a hands-on tour of the Hōkūala farm.
    Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025
Adjective
  • The Redditor described living in a large suburban community surrounded by woods, where wildlife like foxes and bears are common.
    Ashley Vega, People.com, 18 May 2025
  • Of the largest companies – those with 20,000 or more employees – 70% cover IVF.
    Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 18 May 2025
Adjective
  • The drama follows a woman born into modest circumstances in Sicily in 1900, who goes on to navigate life in a convent, and then carves herself out a place in aristocratic household achieving happiness and emancipation in the process.
    Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 7 May 2025
  • Kollwitz’ life also coincided with the final days of aristocratic feudalism and serfdom in Germany and the nation’s economic transition to Industrialism.
    Chadd Scott, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Colombia’s coastal cities are famous for their cuisine, but don’t overlook their wonderful street foods.
    Cat Sposato, AFAR Media, 15 May 2025
  • Its deep, shiny green foliage is a wonderful complement to the perfectly peachy hue of each rose.
    Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • Tesla sales have experienced a huge international decline, leaving room for competitors to gain momentum.
    Charles Singh, USA Today, 16 May 2025
  • Sandburg 26-4 (4) Improvement from senior outside hitter Aaron Dennie could be huge for Eagles in playoffs.
    Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • The wedding went off without a hitch, a glorious event on a glorious August day.
    Lian Dolan, People.com, 20 May 2025
  • This title is up for grabs in the most glorious of ways.
    Sam Amick, New York Times, 19 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Grand.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/grand. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

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