majestic

Frequently Asked Questions About majestic

How does the adjective majestic differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of majestic are grandiose, grand, imposing, magnificent, and stately. While all these words mean "large and impressive," majestic combines the implications of imposing and stately and usually adds a suggestion of solemn grandeur.

a majestic waterfall

When could grand be used to replace majestic?

Although the words grand and majestic have much in common, grand adds to greatness of size the implications of handsomeness and dignity.

a grand staircase

In what contexts can grandiose take the place of majestic?

The words grandiose and majestic can be used in similar contexts, but grandiose implies a size or scope exceeding ordinary experience, but is most commonly applied derogatorily to inflated pretension or absurd exaggeration.

grandiose hydroelectric projects

grandiose schemes

When is it sensible to use imposing instead of majestic?

The words imposing and majestic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, imposing implies great size and dignity but especially stresses impressiveness.

an imposing edifice

When can magnificent be used instead of majestic?

While in some cases nearly identical to majestic, magnificent implies an impressive largeness proportionate to scale without sacrifice of dignity or good taste.

magnificent paintings

Where would stately be a reasonable alternative to majestic?

While the synonyms stately and majestic are close in meaning, stately may suggest poised dignity, erectness of bearing, handsomeness of proportions, ceremonious deliberation of movement.

the stately procession