Synonym Chooser

How is the word intact distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of intact are entire, perfect, and whole. While all these words mean "not lacking or faulty in any particular," intact implies retention of perfection of a thing in its natural or original state.

the boat survived the storm intact

When might entire be a better fit than intact?

While in some cases nearly identical to intact, entire implies perfection deriving from integrity, soundness, or completeness of a thing.

the entire Beethoven corpus

In what contexts can perfect take the place of intact?

The words perfect and intact can be used in similar contexts, but perfect implies the soundness and the excellence of every part, element, or quality of a thing frequently as an unattainable or theoretical state.

a perfect set of teeth

When would whole be a good substitute for intact?

The words whole and intact are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, whole suggests a completeness or perfection that can be sought, gained, or regained.

felt like a whole person again after vacation

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 intact While the ceasefire remains intact, the resurgence of Hamas forces has sparked concern over the group’s disarmament—a vague but critical element of the peace deal. Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Oct. 2025 Trade ties remain intact, but the broader regional integration envisioned under the accords has yet to materialize, Semafor reported. Yossi Shelley, semafor.com, 13 Oct. 2025 Microsoft Office remains a cornerstone of productivity, and the 2019 Professional Plus edition keeps that reputation intact with familiar tools and meaningful updates. PC Magazine, 12 Oct. 2025 Let yourself be inspired by the vision of love and community this trine opens… but don’t forget to keep your feet on the ground and your boundaries intact. Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 12 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for intact
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • In a matter of hours, the pillars of an entire system of repression had not simply collapsed.
    Danny Makki, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
  • The performance, and the entire show at the Flicker Bar, will be released as part of the Drive-By Truckers’ forthcoming reissue of Decoration Day.
    Jonathan Bernstein, Rolling Stone, 15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • It was considered immoral to lie and the whole point of writing things down back then was to increase morality and improve society, so there really is no didactic history of forgery.
    JSTOR Daily, JSTOR Daily, 16 Oct. 2025
  • But even at the time, officials acknowledged students still wouldn’t be able to navigate the whole building.
    Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • From General Hospital's big wins, to Drew Barrymore's first Emmy, keep scrolling to see which fan-favorites come out on top by viewing the complete list of winners from the 2025 Daytime Emmys.
    Liza Esquibias, PEOPLE, 18 Oct. 2025
  • Then in Game Two came Yoshinobu Yamamoto (three hundred and twenty-five million for twelve years), who gave up a home run to the first batter before pitching a complete game in which no one else got to second base.
    Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 18 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Our hearts are extra full this week 🥰 #DedicationNight featuring our stars’ special guests is TONIGHT - 8/7c on ABC and Disney+.
    Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Oct. 2025
  • Keep reading for a full recap from week 5 of Dancing with the Stars.
    Brianne Tracy, PEOPLE, 15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • In perhaps a perfect encapsulation of the Rangers’ current woes, Mika Zibanejad put himself in position to score an overtime winner and prepared to shoot, only for the puck to slide off his stick.
    Peter Baugh, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Beyond Blues introduces non-indigo dye options and versatile customization possibilities, while Airsoft features a fresh palette of luminous mid and light indigo tones, complemented by soft greys and blacks—perfect for spring-summer moods and relaxed silhouettes.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 17 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The eastern campus will total 300,000 square feet and focus on comprehensive primary care, primary and specialty pediatric care, and adult and pediatric urgent care.
    George Avalos, Mercury News, 13 Oct. 2025
  • Consider the personal income per resident yardstick, the bureau’s comprehensive measurement of all types of incomes, including those from jobs, businesses, investments, and government assistance.
    Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 13 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on intact

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