Definition of perfectnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word perfect distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of perfect are entire, intact, and whole. While all these words mean "not lacking or faulty in any particular," 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

In what contexts can entire take the place of perfect?

In some situations, the words entire and perfect are roughly equivalent. However, entire implies perfection deriving from integrity, soundness, or completeness of a thing.

the entire Beethoven corpus

When is it sensible to use intact instead of perfect?

While in some cases nearly identical to perfect, intact implies retention of perfection of a thing in its natural or original state.

the boat survived the storm intact

When could whole be used to replace perfect?

While the synonyms whole and perfect are close in meaning, 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 perfect
Adjective
And the Chiefs defense sealed the game with an interception after the Raiders had marched into their territory — but only after the Raiders were backed up on their own 1-yard line after a perfect Araiza punt. — Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 4 Oct. 2026 The Miami Hurricanes’ perfect run to start the season continued with a 41-13 win at the Clemson Tigers on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 4 Oct. 2026
Verb
Maracana workers were using mows and scissors, big and small, to perfect the turf for the game. — ABC News, 26 Sep. 2026 The result is that the Flagg card was graded a PSA Gem Mint 10 with a 10 autograph grade — as close to perfect as possible. — Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for perfect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perfect
Adjective
  • This hotel feels upscale while keeping within a reasonable budget—ideal for 30- or 40-something couples looking for chic accommodations and access to the sights, without sacrificing peace and quiet at the end of the night.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • And up to 20 miles (32 km) under ideal line-of-sight conditions.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 4 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Cupping treatments come in detoxifying and cellulite targeting versions, and there's a complete slate of massage, sugaring, waxing, aromatherapy, and hair and makeup options.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Although Koerte believes Europe needs to develop greater AI capabilities, complete sovereignty remains a pipe dream.
    — Sam Forsdick, Fortune, 5 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • That’s very much present in both our opening and closing night selections, but also across the whole program.
    — Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 5 Oct. 2026
  • This whole series has been about honoring the past without having to relive it.
    — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 5 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • The sauna, steam room, and 16-head walk-in shower finish out the treatment options.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • But that cannot be used as an excuse because the Dolphins scored just 13 points in each of the games that Achane finished.
    — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 5 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Neutrinos bump into other particles only rarely, so scientists build large detectors to improve their odds of catching collisions.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 7 Oct. 2026
  • But experts are not optimistic that the additional supply will improve refined product availability and temper prices in the long run.
    — Matthew Tan, CNBC, 6 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Small details are attended to with flawless execution—when the night is chilly, blankets appear at the dinner table; housekeeping and pool maintenance is timed so as not to interfere with your presence; transfers and shuttles are booked with ease.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Not every film was flawless, but few actors have ever had a stronger run of hits.
    — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 6 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • My absolute dream is to be on a television comedy and just get to go to work and laugh all the time, and continue to write more of these shows and tour them.
    — Chris Willman, Variety, 1 Oct. 2026
  • The combined implication of transitivity and the infinitive verb is that, speaking conceptually, the artist engages a category of encounter that is absolute, while process and contingency govern the actuality of the work as a function of time.
    — Jeffrey Weiss, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Not single pieces of treasured family heirlooms, or even a single chair — entire suites of furniture!
    — Carolyn Hax, Washington Post, 3 Oct. 2026
  • While coach Paul Maurice was unable to confirm the severity of the injury in his postgame press conference, Florida fans are especially anxious, considering an ACL tear kept Barkov out for the entire season last year.
    — Austin Perry OutKick, FOXNews.com, 2 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Perfect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perfect. Accessed 8 Oct. 2026.

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