Definition of predominantnext

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of predominant are dominant, paramount, and preponderant. While all these words mean "superior to all others in influence or importance," predominant applies to something that exerts, often temporarily, the most marked influence.

a predominant emotion

When can dominant be used instead of predominant?

While in some cases nearly identical to predominant, dominant applies to something that is uppermost because ruling or controlling.

a dominant social class

When could paramount be used to replace predominant?

In some situations, the words paramount and predominant are roughly equivalent. However, paramount implies supremacy in importance, rank, or jurisdiction.

unemployment was the paramount issue in the campaign

In what contexts can preponderant take the place of predominant?

The words preponderant and predominant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, preponderant applies to an element or factor that outweighs all others in influence or effect.

preponderant evidence in her favor

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 predominant The name of the predominant flavor must appear as part of the product name. Chris Perugini, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026 Matthew Harmon of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, representing law enforcement, the predominant users of ALPRs in the area. Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 The predominant vulnerable building types are unreinforced brick masonry and adobe block construction. Kenton Gewecke, ABC News, 25 June 2026 Black holes are regions in space in which gravity has become such a predominant force that nothing, not even light, can escape. Mary Ogborn, The Conversation, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for predominant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for predominant
Adjective
  • Also, the arena operates with one main kitchen; the hope is to have kitchens on all three levels to enhance fans’ concession experience.
    Jason Quick, New York Times, 20 July 2026
  • Tourism – the island’s main economic lifeline – was down 58% in the first five months of 2026 compared with the year before.
    The Week UK, TheWeek, 19 July 2026
Adjective
  • Here was a team that played a beautiful, dominant style of soccer that enthralled the world and stymied opponents on its way to the World Cup final.
    Patrick Sung Cuadrado, CNN Money, 20 July 2026
  • Tarik Skubal pitched seven dominant innings, Spencer Torkelson homered twice and drove in four runs, and the Detroit Tigers cruised to a 7-0 win over the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday night.
    ABC News, ABC News, 19 July 2026
Adjective
  • Because, as a one-off measure, FIFA would not have been the primary beneficiary.
    Henry Bushnell, New York Times, 21 July 2026
  • Detectives identified Stevenson Tuimavave as the primary suspect and obtained warrants for his arrest and a search of his home, police said.
    Molly Gibbs, Mercury News, 21 July 2026
Adjective
  • The executions have drawn attention to the ageing death-row population in the US, as well as Florida’s status as the foremost death penalty state.
    Harriet Marsden, TheWeek, 16 July 2026
  • Among the most significant was the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Bharat Tex Trade Federation (BTTF) and Première Vision Paris, one of the world’s foremost textile and fashion sourcing platforms.
    Mayu Saini, Footwear News, 15 July 2026
Adjective
  • In addition to its ongoing pursuit of LeBron James, the Heat also would like to add another veteran shooter and another veteran big man but might begin the season with only 14 under contract.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 18 July 2026
  • Flair then turned her attention to Cargill and hit a big boot, forcing the disqualification.
    Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 18 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Predominant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/predominant. Accessed 24 Jul. 2026.

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