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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 But also: the romantic comedy might be the most sublime entertainment genre devised by humankind. Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 13 June 2025 Cinematographer Bill Pope photographs the rough and rugged terrain of Viking territory with an eye for its sublime beauty and staggering scale. Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 10 June 2025 For your downtime Going out Spas: 10 seriously sublime Palm Springs-area spas with day passes. Julia Wick, Los Angeles Times, 10 June 2025 But Castro isn’t punching you in the face with flavor; her style is subtle and sublime. Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for sublime
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sublime
Adjective
  • And the noble cause that unites us requires no less.
    The Editors, National Review, 24 June 2025
  • The instinct behind this trend—to broaden one’s circle of concern—was noble.
    David Litt, Time, 24 June 2025
Adjective
  • Furthermore, the fact the band hasn’t down-tuned or adjusted any of their songs for vocalist Bruce Dickinson, who still effortlessly sings each and every one of Iron Maiden’s songs is absolutely astonishing.
    Quentin Thane Singer, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
  • But an investigation resulted in an astonishing call from the other side of the world, which revealed that ‘The GPO Girl’ was, in fact, a 25-year-old Australian, who has created more than 100 false identities.
    Max Goldbart, Deadline, 24 June 2025
Adjective
  • That could mean even greater affordability for smaller businesses adopting AI for their businesses.
    Bernice Ooi, CNBC, 26 June 2025
  • With the right combination of a digital sales and service platform and people, financial institutions can create seamless, personalized experiences while driving greater efficiency and long-term growth.
    Deep Varma, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025
Adjective
  • Colleagues, mentors and friends are wonderful sources of feedback.
    Kim Salem-Jackson, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Favorite collections: Dior, Willy Chavarria, Craig Green, Lemaire and Officine Générale Best show format: The glorious city of Paris and its surroundings were on wonderful display this show season.
    Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 30 June 2025
Adjective
  • Key stat Muncy tied his career high with seven RBIs.
    Greg Beacham, Chicago Tribune, 23 June 2025
  • Daily high temperatures are forecast to be well into the 90s, with overnight temperatures dropping only into the mid-70s from the Great Lakes to the East Coast.
    Doyle Rice, USA Today, 22 June 2025
Adjective
  • And equally amazing is the fact that the brooch or pin that Duguid wears in it on his coat survives and [was previously] displayed next to the painting.
    Karin Wulf, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 July 2025
  • Looking for an amazing place to celebrate the Fourth of July?
    Everett Potter, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • Fiennes exhibits that side of him without apology, which only makes his gallant side feel all the more genuine.
    Joe Reid, Vulture, 12 June 2025
  • Each year, Scouts, Scouters, veterans and other community groups from all over the Bay Area gather in tribute to these gallant men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country.
    Karl Mondon, Mercury News, 25 May 2025
Adjective
  • There's also a nod to the narrator's wife making an unexpected comeback late on, though Robbie's miraculous/implausible (delete as appropriate) return from the dead stretches credibility way past breaking point.
    Richard Edwards, Space.com, 29 June 2025
  • Considering her herculean effort and miraculous success, the speediness of her undoing is stunning.
    Literary Hub June 23, Literary Hub, 23 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sublime.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sublime. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

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