Definition of insertnext

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 Three technologies—horizontal drilling, injection of light hydrocarbon liquids to mobilize the oil, and use of progressive cavity pumps (inserted into a well to force the oil upwards)—were pivotal, first introduced in the 1990s and becoming widespread soon after. Scott Montgomery, Forbes.com, 25 Jan. 2026 But as Scheierman prepared to inbound the ball in the frontcourt, Mazzulla pivoted, calling Williams to the bench and inserting Gonzalez. Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 24 Jan. 2026 Rocklin High coach Steve Taylor inserted the then-6-foot-4 Lavrenov into the Thunder’s varsity lineup as a wide-eyed freshman in the fall of 2021. Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 23 Jan. 2026 The Titans, who were coming off single-digit losses to UC Davis and UC Riverside on the road last week, went with a different starting lineup, inserting Davis White in at guard in place of fellow freshman Bryce Cofield. Dan Arritt, Oc Register, 23 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for insert
Recent Examples of Synonyms for insert
Verb
  • Freelancer, however, harkened back to the open concept introduced by Elite, giving players 48 star systems to explore and the freedom to pursue their own destiny as traders, miners, or bounty hunters.
    Alan Bradley, Space.com, 31 Jan. 2026
  • Denmark will also tighten controls on foreigners without legal residence, introduce a new anklet monitor for criminal foreigners, reopen an embassy in Syria and strengthen cooperation with authorities in Afghanistan.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 31 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Amp up a boots and leggings outfit by injecting a bit of brightness through your choice of footwear.
    Amber Rambharose, InStyle, 31 Jan. 2026
  • By injecting the song with a bossa nova cadence, Laufey made the Carey standard her own while remaining true to its core.
    Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 31 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The looming departures add pressure to an industry already contending with 350,000 open positions — a shortfall that’s expected to grow in coming years as the nation ages.
    Tami Luhby, CNN Money, 1 Feb. 2026
  • The researchers stopped adding new data at specific points and let the model run forward on its own.
    Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 1 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Melvin interjected to Mellencamp.
    Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 16 Jan. 2026
  • Mosh, whose real name is Chaz Warrington, quickly interjected with a caveat regarding their retirement status.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Cinematic history is filled with examples, some more successful than others, of filmmakers creating dramas based on traumatic real events and interpolating raw documentary material to impart a sense of authenticity.
    Justin Chang, New Yorker, 14 Jan. 2026
  • Zoë Kravitz and mother Lisa Bonet are another example of interpolating beauty sensibilities with their own personal twists: while Kravitz leans more into a cool-girl, sleek style of glam, Bonet has long established a bohemian, gloriously natural aesthetic.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 17 Dec. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Insert.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/insert. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026.

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