Synonym Chooser

How is the word poignant distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of poignant are affecting, impressive, moving, pathetic, and touching. While all these words mean "having the power to produce deep emotion," poignant applies to what keenly or sharply affects one's sensitivities.

a poignant documentary on the homeless

How do affecting and moving relate to one another, in the sense of poignant?

Affecting is close to moving but most often suggests pathos.

an affecting deathbed reunion

When can impressive be used instead of poignant?

In some situations, the words impressive and poignant are roughly equivalent. However, impressive implies compelling attention, admiration, wonder, or conviction.

an impressive list of achievements

In what contexts can moving take the place of poignant?

Although the words moving and poignant have much in common, moving may apply to any strong emotional effect including thrilling, agitating, saddening, or calling forth pity or sympathy.

a moving appeal for contributions

When might pathetic be a better fit than poignant?

The words pathetic and poignant can be used in similar contexts, but pathetic implies moving to pity or sometimes contempt.

pathetic attempts to justify misconduct

When is touching a more appropriate choice than poignant?

While in some cases nearly identical to poignant, touching implies arousing tenderness or compassion.

the touching innocence in a child's eyes

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 poignant Beyoncé was among those honoring his legacy, writing a poignant message in remembrance of his work. Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 14 Oct. 2025 Harry’s recent reunion with his father in London adds a poignant layer to the parallel timing of their public appearances. Meredith Kile, PEOPLE, 10 Oct. 2025 Opening the second half with an especially poignant scene, a different pair reenacted the many days when even choosing to get out of bed and face another day of disability is difficult. Cory Trenda, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Oct. 2025 Many of Abbott’s personal items appear in the film, lending a poignant dose of reality. Barry Levitt, Time, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for poignant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for poignant
Adjective
  • His family said their final goodbyes to him during an emotional funeral procession on July 30, which took place in Birmingham.
    Nicholas Rice, PEOPLE, 19 Oct. 2025
  • In what ways will his grief manifest this season, and what role will his struggle with sobriety play in his emotional journey?
    Alamin Yohannes, Entertainment Weekly, 18 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Glade Plug-In Apple Cinnamon Refills, 5-Pack This fragrance is a little sweet, a little spicy, and 100 percent comforting — definitely not your typical overpowering air freshener.
    Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Rally’s is launching two new spicy Western-style burgers in California.
    Carlos Rico, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Perhaps the most impressive part of his scouting report is his intangibles.
    Dane Brugler, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
  • With more time, detour west for a half-day into tiny Siloam Springs, home to a postcard-charming downtown and impressive kayak park (open year-round; just check the website for current river conditions).
    AFAR Media, AFAR Media, 15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The tequila daisy cocktail, served in a clay cantarito cup smudged with sumac salt, is piquant with ancho verde, mellowed with summer strawberry.
    Rachel Bernhard, jsonline.com, 29 Aug. 2025
  • His piquant style of writing in the unfinished tell-all feels like dropping into a gossip circle in the most glamorous (and cutting) powder room on the planet.
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 22 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Give your slow-cooker the night off because this fan-favorite chili relies on the Instant Pot for a quick and delicious option.
    Nellah Bailey McGough, Southern Living, 18 Oct. 2025
  • The local food scene has been heating up with dozens of delicious Indian restaurants.
    Chyna Blackmon, Charlotte Observer, 16 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • That goes for bars of pungent soap, essential oils, sonic repellant devices, and hanging up pennies in bags of water, a favorite Internet myth.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 10 Oct. 2025
  • The pungent smell of weed pervaded the arena as YoungBoy performed an eclectic set, showcasing the breadth of songs in his catalog.
    Jayson Buford, Rolling Stone, 30 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Explore the universe with news on fascinating discoveries, scientific advancements and more.
    Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 15 Oct. 2025
  • The puzzle of who-knows-who-knows-what, always fascinating to fans of mystery novels and spy thrillers, has long preoccupied psychologists and game theorists.
    Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 14 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • White wine, shallots, and lemon zest and juice build on what the butter and garlic get started, and a couple tablespoons of capers give the dish a zesty tang.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 15 Oct. 2025
  • According to information obtained by PEOPLE, Retro Diet Coke Lime is returning to shelves nationwide, with its signature zesty lime kick that first won hearts before being discontinued in 2018.
    Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Poignant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/poignant. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on poignant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!