Thesaurus

lively

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

adverb

Save Word

Synonyms & Antonyms of lively

(Entry 1 of 2)

in a quick and spirited manner

now then, step lively there

Synonyms for lively

Words Related to lively

allegro

Near Antonyms for lively

Antonyms for lively

lively

adjective

Synonyms & Antonyms of lively (Entry 2 of 2)

1 having much high-spirited energy and movement

the lively puppy was racing around the dining room floor chasing after people's shoelaces

Synonyms for lively

Words Related to lively

Phrases Synonymous with lively

on the go

Near Antonyms for lively

Antonyms for lively

2 marked by much life, movement, or activity

the party was a lively affair that lasted into the small hours of the morning

Synonyms for lively

Words Related to lively

Antonyms for lively

Frequently Asked Questions About lively

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