Synonym Chooser

How does the verb insert contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of insert are insinuate, intercalate, interject, interpolate, interpose, and introduce. While all these words mean "to put between or among others," insert implies putting into a fixed or open space between or among.

inserted a clause in the contract

When is it sensible to use insinuate instead of insert?

The words insinuate and insert are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, insinuate implies introducing gradually or by gentle pressure.

insinuated himself into the group

When can intercalate be used instead of insert?

In some situations, the words intercalate and insert are roughly equivalent. However, intercalate suggests an intrusive inserting of something in an existing series or sequence.

new chapters intercalated with the old

In what contexts can interject take the place of insert?

While in some cases nearly identical to insert, interject implies an abrupt or forced introduction.

interjected a question

When is interpolate a more appropriate choice than insert?

Although the words interpolate and insert have much in common, interpolate applies to the inserting of something extraneous or spurious.

interpolated her own comments into the report

Where would interpose be a reasonable alternative to insert?

The synonyms interpose and insert are sometimes interchangeable, but interpose suggests inserting an obstruction or cause of delay.

interpose barriers to communication

When would introduce be a good substitute for insert?

While the synonyms introduce and insert are close in meaning, introduce is a general term for bringing or placing a thing or person into a group or body already in existence.

introduced a new topic into the conversation

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 insert This means that even a very small number of malicious files inserted into training data can teach a model to behave in unexpected or harmful ways when triggered by a specific phrase or pattern. Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 14 Oct. 2025 Gaines inserts the tool’s probe into the soil of her potted plants, which reveals how wet the soil is. Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 14 Oct. 2025 In August, a Ramsey County judge struck down a state law banning binary triggers because DFL lawmakers inserted it into a 1,400-page bill in the final hours of the 2024 legislative session, violating the Minnesota Constitution’s Single Subject and Title Clause. Mara H. Gottfried, Twin Cities, 14 Oct. 2025 Bake, rotating pan halfway through, until a tester inserted into center of cake comes out almost clean, 60 to 70 minutes. Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 13 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for insert
Recent Examples of Synonyms for insert
Verb
  • So in 2017, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases formally recommended parents introduce children under the age of 3 to allergens like nuts.
    Cara Lynn Shultz, PEOPLE, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Aquatic nuisance species are non-native plants and animals that can cause ecological or economic harm, or even harm to human health if introduced to a body of water.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 21 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Her interest in aesthetics led Sturm to learn other facial procedures, including how to inject Botox and fillers.
    Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 18 Oct. 2025
  • Only sea stars injected with Vibrio pectenicida, or with material from sick sea stars, showed signs of disease.
    JSTOR Daily, JSTOR Daily, 17 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Its boxy fit and hip-skimming length call to mind the actress’s style, while its fall-ready texture adds a trendy twist to basic outerwear.
    Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 18 Oct. 2025
  • But adding a refreshing cucumber to your beverage offers an extra hydration boost, thanks to the veggie's high water content.
    Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 17 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • In the middle of the date, the FBI interjects and arrests the man, blowing up Athena’s cover.
    Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 9 Oct. 2025
  • As the reporter continues speaking, though, Holland then interjects with a quick correction.
    Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 30 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Her paintings from the 1960s are themselves interpolated by the body’s surrogates: fluid stains, eyes, claws, and extracted human teeth.
    Elizabeth Mangini, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2025
  • To commemorate the release, Jones spoke with Variety about interpolating Brandy for one of the deluxe album’s tracks, name-checking Chappell Roan on another and plans for her wedding after she got engaged to Donovan Mitchell last month.
    Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 15 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Insert.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/insert. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on insert

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