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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective sublime contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of sublime are glorious, gorgeous, resplendent, splendid, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When can glorious be used instead of sublime?

The synonyms glorious and sublime are sometimes interchangeable, but glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When would gorgeous be a good substitute for sublime?

Although the words gorgeous and sublime have much in common, gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

When is resplendent a more appropriate choice than sublime?

The words resplendent and sublime are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

Where would splendid be a reasonable alternative to sublime?

The meanings of splendid and sublime largely overlap; however, splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When is it sensible to use superb instead of sublime?

While the synonyms superb and sublime are close in meaning, superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree.

her singing was superb

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 sublime Though San Miguel de Allende’s sublime culinary scene means visitors will want to spend meals out on the town, the property’s kitchen also makes a mean breakfast—and has the in at every restaurant in town. Carley Rojas Ávila, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025 Amphibious cars are a monument to indecision, never perfected, always a compromise of some sort but often in their weird way sublime, like the Sea Lion Amphibious Prototype heading for auction this weekend. Erik Shilling, Robb Report, 16 Sep. 2025 The main street, Arendell, is lined with shops, seafood restaurants, and a string of fishing charters ready to take you out for a sublime day on the water. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 8 Sep. 2025 An award-winning La Jolla ensemble is gearing up for a show full of sublime harmonies and a cappella tunes. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sublime
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sublime
Adjective
  • But the filmmakers’ motivations for glomming on to Ed are depicted as being noble.
    Judy Berman, Time, 6 Oct. 2025
  • Plus, the great David Thewlis will make his first appearance as Peylak, noble leader of the Wind Traders tribe.
    Jeff Spry, Space.com, 1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • For decades, scientists have wondered whether quantum mechanics plays a role in this astonishing efficiency.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 1 Oct. 2025
  • New analysis highlighted the astonishing economic cost of AI data centers’ power demands.
    Prashant Rao, semafor.com, 1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • See how commonwealth compares to other states The classic Halloween symbol is also great at dividing the masses.
    Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 2 Oct. 2025
  • At just $30, Universal Thread’s version is a great way to add the style to your rotation at a fraction of the price.
    Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Skor bars are a nonnegotiable addition; the cookies have the perfect toffee-to-chocolate ratio and wonderful texture.
    The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Today’s tech news follows; have a wonderful weekend.
    Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • If trapped by moving water, seek the highest possible point and contact emergency services by calling 911.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 Oct. 2025
  • Computer Mice Deals The Logitech G502 Lightspeed earned high marks from our expert thanks to great battery life and low-latency wireless connectivity.
    Jade Chung-Lee, PC Magazine, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Shackleton may have made a mistake in the outdoors, and the amazing story of his getting back on track entertained millions of people for a century afterward.
    Frederick Dreier, Outside, 7 Oct. 2025
  • The flocking is amazing, not too heavy yet sturdy.
    Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The experience of secession, of war, of industrial slaughter and gallant sacrifice, of Black soldiery and humanity all reforged Lincoln into a stronger alloy.
    Jack Sheehan September 4, Literary Hub, 4 Sep. 2025
  • The pre-match tifo at the Roker End depicted the County Durham legend of the giant Lambton worm, slayed by a gallant local hero.
    Philip Buckingham, New York Times, 17 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Inter reaching two Champions League finals in the past three seasons is nothing short of miraculous — particularly given the club got repossessed by the investment firm Oaktree just over a year ago.
    James Horncastle, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
  • In a miraculous turn of events, one of Whitefield’s closest friends and greatest promoters becomes none other than Benjamin Franklin.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 30 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sublime.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sublime. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

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