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 Most VPNs impose a limit on simultaneous connections, with five being common; indeed, the standalone VPN allows just five devices. — Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 30 Sep. 2026 China has set a new world record for simultaneous autonomous underwater vehicles after 116 small drones navigated a swimming pool without human control. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 29 Sep. 2026 Together, the four brands mark the first time refillable deodorant has had simultaneous entries at both mass-market and boutique price points. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 21 Sep. 2026 But his plans are turned upside down by a mysterious announcement signed by Lupin, that multiple museums are to be hit with simultaneous heists. — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for simultaneous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for simultaneous
Adjective
  • Her state sentence will run concurrent to the federal sentence.
    — Elijah Westbrook, CBS News, 6 Oct. 2026
  • He was sentenced to concurrent life terms in federal prison on six charges, nearly 12 years on a firearm conspiracy charge and 10 years on an obstruction of justice charge.
    — Angie DiMichele, Sun Sentinel, 2 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The rideshare mission, known as Transporter-18, carried 130 payloads into a polar Sun-synchronous orbit.
    — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 2 Oct. 2026
  • 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
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 15 Oct. 2026.

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