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ideal

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun ideal differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of ideal are example, exemplar, model, and pattern. While all these words mean "someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation," ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception.

never found a job that matched his ideal

When can example be used instead of ideal?

The synonyms example and ideal are sometimes interchangeable, but example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning.

children tend to follow the example of their parents

When might exemplar be a better fit than ideal?

The words exemplar and ideal are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification.

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

In what contexts can model take the place of ideal?

The words model and ideal can be used in similar contexts, but model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation.

a decor that is a model of good taste

When could pattern be used to replace ideal?

Although the words pattern and ideal have much in common, pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype.

American industry set a pattern for others to follow

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 ideal
Adjective
The high neck and short mini skirt were the ideal high fashion pairing. Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 8 Sep. 2025 This is ideal for video calls, vlogging or viewing tutorials while taking notes—offering a greater level of physical interaction and adaptability. Mark Vena, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025
Noun
Located right next to the fabric center is The Depot Deli, ideal for those who might work up an appetite while shopping. Olivia Lee, Charlotte Observer, 9 Sep. 2025 Inside, there are three compartments ideal for keeping travel essentials like a laptop, toiletries, and clothes separated and organized. Rachel Trujillo, Travel + Leisure, 7 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ideal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ideal
Adjective
  • And many additional ideas in theoretical physics seek to add in additional symmetries, additional dimensions, additional extra particles, or additional unification frameworks.
    Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 9 Sep. 2025
  • If not, these elements of Musk’s project are likely to remain more theoretical, just as the dreams of last century’s techno-utopians did.
    Sonja Fritzsche, The Conversation, 9 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The reigning Olympic and world champion Lyles hasn’t been perfect in 2025, either.
    Cory Mull, Forbes.com, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Adidas Gender Inclusive Samba OG Sneakers The Adidas Samba sneakers are one of the most popular styles from the brand and a perfect versatile shoe for fall.
    Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 12 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • In the midst of feeling helpless, Kate said an idea took shape to commemorate the victims.
    Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Sep. 2025
  • And the 18-year-old Mastantuono has already brought fresh ideas to Madrid’s attack.
    James McNicholas, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The Polestar 1 is a future classic, the Polestar 2 is pretty good as well, the Polestar 3 is mostly forgettable, and so is the Polestar 4.
    Erik Shilling, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2025
  • Romantic films in the modern era often lack the depth that cult classics released in the 1980s and 1990s had.
    Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 9 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only.
    William Jones, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
  • In a 2004 study, the United States Institute of Peace said that hundreds of terrorist groups had migrated online, utilizing a tool meant for better communication for often nefarious purposes.
    Richard Frankel, ABC News, 11 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Over at Metropolitan State University, the on-campus gallery is presenting works from five Twin Cities Latino artists working across paintings, puppetry, photography and more focused on bestiarios, or fantastical, mythical beasts.
    Jared Kaufman, Twin Cities, 7 Sep. 2025
  • Renewal Through Setback Erik Marthon Olsen of Laerdal Invest chose the phoenix, the mythical bird that rises from its own ashes.
    Francois Botha, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Bates frequently has to play several versions of the character in the same scene, and her performances are flawless.
    Michael Schneider, Variety, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Growing from $59 billion to $200 billion in annual revenue requires flawless execution across hiring, infrastructure buildout, and customer delivery.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Built to last, the 2020 model features a new roof design that boasts up to 90 pounds per square foot of snow load.
    Gabriela Izquierdo, Southern Living, 12 Sep. 2025
  • The iPhone 17 lineup is headlined by the addition of the iPhone 17 Air, which takes the place of the iPhone Plus model that served as the company's second tier phone.
    James Powel, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ideal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ideal. Accessed 13 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on ideal

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