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lively

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adjective

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective lively contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of lively are animated, gay, sprightly, and vivacious. While all these words mean "keenly alive and spirited," lively suggests briskness, alertness, or energy.

a lively debate on the issues

In what contexts can animated take the place of lively?

The synonyms animated and lively are sometimes interchangeable, but animated applies to what is spirited and active.

an animated discussion of current events

When could gay be used to replace lively?

The meanings of gay and lively largely overlap; however, gay stresses complete freedom from care and overflowing spirits.

the gay spirit of Paris in the 1920s

When can sprightly be used instead of lively?

The words sprightly and lively are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sprightly suggests lightness and spirited vigor of manner or wit.

a tuneful, sprightly musical

When is it sensible to use vivacious instead of lively?

Although the words vivacious and lively have much in common, vivacious suggests an activeness of gesture and wit, often playful or alluring.

a vivacious party host

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 lively
Adjective
His crossword is not themed, but the entry is lively nonetheless. Deb Amlen, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025 Located right on the bustling Piazza delle Erbe, Verona’s liveliest piazza built atop the ancient Roman Capitolium, this museum gives new life to a majestic 17th-century palazzo. Laura Itzkowitz, Travel + Leisure, 22 Apr. 2025 Upbeat music booms over the speakers, and laughter fills the lively space, which is adorned with marble walls, a massive wine cellar and a nearly $2-million Swedish sports car on display. Kailyn Brown, Los Angeles Times, 18 Apr. 2025 With its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and lively cities, Mexico is an affordable destination with visa options for digital nomads. Alex Ledsom, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lively
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lively
Adjective
  • That motion can help build strength that translates over to tons of daily tasks, like walking an energetic dog or opening a heavy door, to name a few.
    Christa Sgobba, SELF, 12 May 2025
  • With energetic DJs and robata shows, this is definitely the place to be seen.
    Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • What To Know The volcano's summit features a caldera—formed by volcanic eruptions—and supports vibrant hydrothermal vent ecosystems populated by microbes, tube worms, crabs, fish, octopuses and more.
    Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 May 2025
  • It was developed as a major family entertainment property targeting both Spanish-speaking and international markets, with a vibrant ensemble cast led by Joaquín Reyes and Arturo Valls.
    Jamie Lang, Variety, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • New installments in development include a fifth chapter in the main series, an animated prequel, and a spin-off focused on Donnie Yen’s blind assassin, Caine.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 2 May 2025
  • Its production pedigree and glib roasting of materialism through the magic-using preppy Kaz set it apart from the majority of animated and live-action series alike.
    Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 2 May 2025
Adjective
  • Topline Newark Liberty International Airport experienced a lengthy air traffic control outage Sunday morning, shortly before Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the airport should scale back its operations amid air traffic control issues at the busy New Jersey airport.
    Suzanne Rowan Kelleher, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025
  • Between the award show appearances, several hit television shows, and red carpet events, the couple remains busy but grounded in their purpose for their growing family.
    Dominique Fluker, Essence, 11 May 2025
Adjective
  • Police may switch from active pursuit when the driver is speeding or behaving erratically.
    Kaitlyn Huamani, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2025
  • Transfer portal Campbell hasn’t written much about the portal, and Texas Tech has been an active user in recent years.
    Chris Vannini, New York Times, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • Such seemingly minor biographical details are what animate L’Enchanteur, which was born in 2012 after Soull and Dynasty merged their independent labels—Alkhemi9 and BRZÉ, respectively.
    Thessaly La Force, Vogue, 22 Apr. 2025
  • Users do have creative freedom — freedom to learn to draw, animate, write, score, or direct their own projects.
    Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • In a thriving and competitive women's division, the consistent presence of a talent like Bliss would undoubtedly provide a substantial boost, injecting another layer of depth, star power, and compelling storylines into the roster.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Economic Growth: Promoting policies that attract businesses, support local entrepreneurship, and ensure access to opportunities for all residents, contributing to a thriving and sustainable Fort Worth economy.
    Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The chippies, pubs and merchandise stalls on Goodison Road are doing brisk business, as fans arrive extra early to soak up precious last memories.
    Greg O'Keeffe, New York Times, 14 May 2025
  • Adames began jogging around the bases, but his trot soon slowed into a brisk walk.
    Justice delos Santos, Mercury News, 9 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Lively.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lively. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

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