Definition of simultaneousnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective simultaneous differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of simultaneous are coeval, coincident, contemporaneous, contemporary, and synchronous. While all these words mean "existing or occurring at the same time," simultaneous implies correspondence in a moment of time.

the two shots were simultaneous

When can coeval be used instead of simultaneous?

Although the words coeval and simultaneous have much in common, coeval refers usually to periods, ages, eras, eons.

two stars thought to be coeval

In what contexts can coincident take the place of simultaneous?

In some situations, the words coincident and simultaneous are roughly equivalent. However, coincident is applied to events and may be used in order to avoid implication of causal relationship.

the end of World War II was coincident with a great vintage year

When is it sensible to use contemporaneous instead of simultaneous?

The words contemporaneous and simultaneous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, contemporaneous is more often applied to events than to people.

contemporaneous accounts of the kidnapping

Where would contemporary be a reasonable alternative to simultaneous?

The meanings of contemporary and simultaneous largely overlap; however, contemporary is likely to apply to people and what relates to them.

Abraham Lincoln was contemporary with Charles Darwin

When might synchronous be a better fit than simultaneous?

The synonyms synchronous and simultaneous are sometimes interchangeable, but synchronous implies exact correspondence in time and especially in periodic intervals.

synchronous timepieces

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 simultaneous Now researchers in China have a new way to dramatically scale up the bandwidth of quantum networks by increasing the number of simultaneous quantum communication channels. IEEE Spectrum, 2 Sep. 2026 The average age for simultaneous child and elder care is now 34, not Gen X, with 80% experiencing a sudden onset. Jasmine Browley, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 Her work’s recognition by international curators and her decision to start drawing again were more or less simultaneous events. Laura Preston, New Yorker, 30 Aug. 2026 The simultaneous de-rating of ASML and re-rating of peers largely explains the stock's significant underperformance over the past 12 months. Michael Bloom, CNBC, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for simultaneous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for simultaneous
Adjective
  • The tool kit suggests states use concurrent review to compare delivered hours against authorized hours and test whether intensity still tracks progress.
    JP Montoya, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2026
  • The departures come as Phillips prepares for its upcoming fall sales, to launch in London in October, concurrent with Frieze Week.
    News Desk, Artforum, 31 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Amanda Kocon, Edmentum's chief strategy and operating officer, said the interface looks like an online college course where students work through activities and videos, with options for synchronous instruction through video calls and office hours.
    Lucy Tobier, IndyStar, 18 Aug. 2026
  • North Carolina is also home to synchronous fireflies, another bioluminescent species that lights up on land.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 12 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • For his last runway collection, unveiled in September, Michele constructed a parallel universe of side-by-side shows separated by a wall that when lifted revealed twins in identical looks in synchronic stride.
    Colleen Barry, Fortune, 24 Nov. 2022
Adjective
  • Accelerating human evolution coincident with the development of agriculture increased redheadedness and decreased male-pattern baldness.
    Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026
  • In a separate announcement, but with coincident timing, WestJet also announced a stopover plan in Calgary.
    Don Tse, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Simultaneous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/simultaneous. Accessed 8 Sep. 2026.

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