Synonym Chooser

How is the word nonchalant different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of nonchalant are collected, composed, cool, imperturbable, and unruffled. While all these words mean "free from agitation or excitement," nonchalant stresses an easy coolness of manner or casualness that suggests indifference or unconcern.

a nonchalant driver

When could collected be used to replace nonchalant?

The words collected and nonchalant can be used in similar contexts, but collected implies a concentration of mind that eliminates distractions especially in moments of crisis.

the nurse stayed calm and collected

When might composed be a better fit than nonchalant?

While in some cases nearly identical to nonchalant, composed implies freedom from agitation as a result of self-discipline or a sedate disposition.

the composed pianist gave a flawless concert

When is it sensible to use cool instead of nonchalant?

The words cool and nonchalant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, cool may imply calmness, deliberateness, or dispassionateness.

kept a cool head

Where would imperturbable be a reasonable alternative to nonchalant?

The meanings of imperturbable and nonchalant largely overlap; however, imperturbable implies coolness or assurance even under severe provocation.

the speaker remained imperturbable despite the heckling

In what contexts can unruffled take the place of nonchalant?

While the synonyms unruffled and nonchalant are close in meaning, unruffled suggests apparent serenity and poise in the face of setbacks or in the midst of excitement.

harried but unruffled

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 nonchalant Despite its hefty price tag, Chalamet styled the piece in a nonchalant way, pairing it with a leather jacket, sweatpants, and a cool pair of tan sneakers. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 12 Oct. 2025 Instead, the record reads more like an attempt at appearing nonchalant towards the negative noise, while simultaneously only focusing on it, sandwiched between a few peppy love songs. Bianca Davino, Refinery29, 7 Oct. 2025 Swift first announced her newest album to the world—with a nonchalant unboxing of the vinyl record—on August 12, on her now-fiancé Travis Kelce and brother Jason’s podcast, New Heights. Ayana Underwood, Outside, 3 Oct. 2025 No wonder Trump is nonchalant about shutdown. Chris Brennan, USA Today, 2 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nonchalant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for nonchalant
casual
Adjective
  • What began as a casual idea—something fun to fill the week after the course’s annual aerification—quickly evolved into a full-scale charitable event.
    News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Turn casual contacts into reliable allies while Mercury harmonizes with Jupiter and Saturn.
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 25 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Nonchalant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/nonchalant. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on nonchalant

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