Synonym Chooser

How is the word temperament distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of temperament are character, disposition, personality, and temper. While all these words mean "the dominant quality or qualities distinguishing a person or group," temperament implies a pattern of innate characteristics associated with one's specific physical and nervous organization.

an artistic temperament

Where would character be a reasonable alternative to temperament?

While in some cases nearly identical to temperament, character applies to the aggregate of moral qualities by which a person is judged apart from intelligence, competence, or special talents.

strength of character

When could disposition be used to replace temperament?

While the synonyms disposition and temperament are close in meaning, disposition implies customary moods and attitude toward the life around one.

a cheerful disposition

When is it sensible to use personality instead of temperament?

The words personality and temperament are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, personality applies to an aggregate of qualities that distinguish one as a person.

a somber personality

When would temper be a good substitute for temperament?

The meanings of temper and temperament largely overlap; however, temper implies the qualities acquired through experience that determine how a person or group meets difficulties or handles situations.

a resilient temper

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 temperament Gravina’s praise for his temperament amid the media glare also left one with the impression that the FIGC president can’t be on social media, where the reels of Gattuso’s press conference shenanigans have guaranteed virality. James Horncastle, New York Times, 20 June 2025 Match with intention: Seek someone whose social and emotional value aligns with yours and avoid chasing profiles well above your temperament, needs or values. Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025 Goldendoodles, a cross between golden retrievers and poodles, are known for their friendly temperament, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coats. Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 July 2025 In appearance and temperament, McKim and White could not have been more different. Henry Wiencek july 22, Literary Hub, 22 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • Lack of sleep and chronic discomfort over time can shatter someone's ability to problem-solve and temper moods and emotions, Walz said.
    Natalie Eilbert, jsonline.com, 2 Aug. 2025
  • Before our child spreads their wings and leaves there may be flaring tempers, rebellion, and angry outbursts—which may leave many of us hurt, scratching our heads, and wondering what exactly is going on.
    Sherri Gordon, Parents, 24 June 2025
Noun
  • Mamdani’s sunny disposition, influencer-like mastery of shortform video, and preference for speaking in universal terms — housing as a human right, affordable food for all — have invited inevitable comparisons to one Barack Obama.
    Andrea Long Chu, Vulture, 5 Aug. 2025
  • Known for their distinctive appearance and sweet disposition, Lambkins are a rare breed.
    Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • These attitudes, ranging from judgments about individual behaviors to criticism of the chronically poor, are shaping policies that affect millions of people.
    Stephanie Armour, CNN Money, 5 Aug. 2025
  • What Is Generational Financial Trauma Generational financial trauma refers to physical, psychological, and emotional inheritance of attitudes and beliefs that are influenced by financial stress and financial anxiety experienced by previous generations.
    Rahkim Sabree, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.

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