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total

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noun

total

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verb

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word total distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of total are all, entire, and whole. While all these words mean "including everything or everyone without exception," total implies that everything has been counted, weighed, measured, or considered.

the total number of people present

How does the word all relate to other synonyms for total?

All may equal whole, entire, or total.

all proceeds go to charity

When can entire be used instead of total?

In some situations, the words entire and total are roughly equivalent. However, entire may suggest a state of completeness or perfection to which nothing can be added.

the entire population was wiped out

Where would whole be a reasonable alternative to total?

While in some cases nearly identical to total, whole implies that nothing has been omitted, ignored, abated, or taken away.

read the whole book

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 total
Adjective
Of the total casualties, at least 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic are either confirmed or feared dead. David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 11 July 2025 As for Legends Never Die, Juice’s first posthumous album and third overall LP debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in July 2020 with 497,000 total album units earned. Michael Saponara, Billboard, 11 July 2025
Noun
Kuzma appeared in a total of 65 games for the Wizards and Bucks last season, averaging 14.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 0.6 steals in 29.8 minutes per game. Jason Anderson july 11, Sacbee.com, 11 July 2025 Wissa, Schade and Mbeumo scored 50 league goals in total. Jay Harris, New York Times, 11 July 2025
Verb
That surplus totaled $7.4 billion in 2024, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. Kevin Breuninger, CNBC, 11 July 2025 The company’s workforce totals 195 workers across four manufacturing facilities, with one in Zeeland, one in Traverse City, Mich., and two in North Carolina. Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for total
Recent Examples of Synonyms for total
Adjective
  • The defense is claiming two reasons for dismissal: That Dugan has absolute immunity as a judge on official acts like deciding when a case is called and also that the prosecution is an example of government overreach.
    Daniel Bice, jsonline.com, 15 July 2025
  • For the consumer who truly wants the absolute best optics, glass is still the best material available.
    Roxanne Robinson, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • After just a few months on the job, Bondi claimed her anti-fentanyl operations saved 258 million lives—a number that is roughly three-quarters of the entire U.S. population.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025
  • And to the entire cast and crew — thank you for your brilliance and your heart.
    Shania Russell, EW.com, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • Luminate, the independent data provider to the Billboard charts, completes a thorough review of all data submissions used in compiling the weekly chart rankings.
    Keith Caulfield, Billboard, 13 July 2025
  • Our favorable outlook is based on a thorough assessment of PG's present valuation versus its recent operational results and its historical and current financial stability.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
Noun
  • But just like the dollars that will stay in many taxpayers' pockets and add $3.8 trillion to the national debt, there are large sums for industry packed into the 870-page law, making several winners and losers.
    Jim Sergent, USA Today, 11 July 2025
  • Help arrived in 2009 when a medical malpractice suit filed on behalf of the Avondale Quads was settled out of court for an undisclosed sum.
    Scott Craven, AZCentral.com, 10 July 2025
Verb
  • However, if Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has a say, the days of that technicolor candy might be numbered.
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 11 July 2025
  • They're all numbered and accompanied by a card of authenticity that's signed by the makers.
    Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025
Verb
  • Inspired by the Greek myth of Icarus, the mural adds another layer to the museum's offerings. 700 Congress Ave.
    Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 22 July 2025
  • Use a chive cream cheese, or add some garlic and herb Boursin if desired.
    Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 21 July 2025
Verb
  • Some adults agreed, but others made comments about me ruining the mood.
    Nicholas Rice, People.com, 20 July 2025
  • Nothing ruins the vibe of a beautiful backyard faster than dull, discolored patio furniture that’s more of an eyesore than an inviting lounge spot.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 July 2025
Adjective
  • The sheer number of workers who are undocumented immigrants make the effect of widespread raids more pronounced.
    Marissa Meador, IndyStar, 21 July 2025
  • In a picture at a piano, Alexa wore a pink, sheer dress that opened at her stomach, signifying that the couple was expecting a girl.
    Hannah Sacks, People.com, 18 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Total.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/total. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

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