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 Beyond Fest will present two simultaneous 35mm screenings (one at the Egyptian and one at the Aero) of the new version restored and recut to Russell’s specifications that was announced earlier this year. — Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 9 Sep. 2026 Too many simultaneous launches can overwhelm employees, customers and operations, even when each project is technically on track. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2026 The Clippers’ price for signing Leonard was a simultaneous trade for Paul George that cost them five first-round picks, two swaps and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. — John Hollinger, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026 Both spacecraft also carry instruments to measure the planet's magnetic field, offering simultaneous observations of different parts of the field to scientists who typically make do with data gathered from just one location at a time. — Meghan Bartels, Space.com, 3 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for simultaneous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for simultaneous
Adjective
  • Rebuild versus close The imperative to close all or portions of campuses potentially competes with the concurrent high priority of providing students with safe, up-to-date, fully resourced and inviting education environments.
    — Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 16 Sep. 2026
  • The fallout of the COVID-19 shutdowns and the concurrent writer and actors strikes of 2023 has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
    — Justin Birnbaum, HollywoodReporter, 9 Sep. 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 25 Sep. 2026.

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