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 What’s left for her is the social sphere, where her exploits and her temperament are legend. Richard Brody, New Yorker, 17 Oct. 2025 Yee, who also served as vice chair of the state Democratic Party, said grassroots activists from around the state, particularly in swing districts, had raised concerns about how Porter’s temperament would play. Nicole Nixon, Sacbee.com, 14 Oct. 2025 For all their differences in background, temperament, and approaches to art, Matisse and Picasso both venerated Cézanne, Delacroix, Manet, and van Gogh. Christopher C. Gorham september 29, Literary Hub, 29 Sep. 2025 Iris is a bright young girl with a sensitive temperament and big heart. Pioneer Press, Twin Cities, 28 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • When a conversation is heading in a negative direction, the goal should be to defuse tempers, not inflame.
    Sara Rowe Mount, Parents, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Southern windows work for varieties that prefer full sun, and can work for part-sun-loving plants with the addition of sheer curtains or blinds to temper the light.
    Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 29 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Similar to Rogan’s disposition to endorse pseudoscience and bad medical advice.
    Rafael Perez, Oc Register, 28 Oct. 2025
  • The face is the same, but the conditions around the face — time of day, weather, background, the subject’s personal disposition — vary, and that changes the mood of every photo.
    Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 27 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The conversation seems to have marked a shift in the right’s attitudes about Fuentes.
    Ali Breland, The Atlantic, 31 Oct. 2025
  • Is that indicative of a telling contrast in attitudes?
    Joe Kozlowski, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on temperament

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