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Synonym Chooser

How is the word conventional distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of conventional are ceremonial, ceremonious, and formal. While all these words mean "marked by attention to or adhering strictly to prescribed forms," conventional implies accord with general custom and usage and may suggest a stodgy lack of originality or independence.

conventional courtesy
conventional fiction

How are the words ceremonial and ceremonious related as synonyms of conventional?

Ceremonial and ceremonious both imply strict attention to what is prescribed by custom or by ritual, but ceremonial applies to things that are associated with ceremonies.

a ceremonial offering

When is it sensible to use ceremonious instead of conventional?

In some situations, the words ceremonious and conventional are roughly equivalent. However, ceremonious applies to persons given to ceremony or to acts attended by ceremony.

made his ceremonious entrance

Where would formal be a reasonable alternative to conventional?

The synonyms formal and conventional are sometimes interchangeable, but formal applies both to things prescribed by and to persons obedient to custom and may suggest stiff, restrained, or old-fashioned behavior.

a formal report
the headmaster's formal manner

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 conventional There was never a ton of conventional derring-do on his resume, even in Ron Howard's rather straightforward fantasy adventure. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2025 Basically by definition, non-organic, conventional foods are exposed to synthetic pesticides and herbicides like glyphosate. Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 1 Apr. 2025 Water Conservation: Unlike conventional farming, where excessive water use leads to runoff and waste, Oishii’s system recycles a whopping 95% of its water. Chrissy Tracey, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025 The couple described their path to parenthood as anything but conventional. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for conventional
Recent Examples of Synonyms for conventional
Adjective
  • Since joining the Lakers, Dončić has put up his usual numbers, averaging 27.1 points, 8.1 rebounds and 7.6 assists, and the Lakers are a serious contender.
    Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 10 Apr. 2025
  • And with a submission landscape thinner than usual, this might be creator Charlie Brooker’s best shot yet at one of the top prizes.
    Clayton Davis, Variety, 10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • There are also displays dedicated to how Cartier translated the traditional arts of China, Japan, Iran, Egypt and the Russian Empire, where the House of Fabergé was famed for its decoratively colorful designs.
    Hikmat Mohammed, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2025
  • The idea came from my frustration with traditional methods used to teach hospitality management.
    Betsy Pudliner, The Conversation, 10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The family posed for Christmas photos in matching red formal wear and themed elf onesies in 2023, when Alcala was pregnant with Alianna.
    Nasha Smith, People.com, 3 Apr. 2025
  • Both sides have submitted arguments to the organization and will await a decision on whether there will be a formal investigation.
    Jason D. Greenblatt, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Explore Billboard See latest videos, charts and news News of Cadd’s condition was shared on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 8 (Australian time), with a statement from his family revealing his current health status.
    Tyler Jenke, Billboard, 8 Apr. 2025
  • The gray wolves share physical features with dire wolves but remain genetically and behaviorally distinct due to the limits of current technology and incomplete ancient DNA.
    John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Surgeons reduced the ribs from the front of the body (versus the lower back, as is customary) and conducted pulmonary tests on patients pre- and post-op.
    Jolene Edgar, Allure, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Review: In ‘Good Night, and Good Luck’ on Broadway, here’s George Clooney with an urgent bulletin When George Clooney walks out on stage as Edward R. Murrow, the distinguished American journalist, the chiseled Hollywood star gets the customary entrance applause.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The crowd jammed into the old mill are joined by West African ceremonial dancers and drummers, popping and locking hip-hop movers from the future, a deejay working turntables and a Rick James-style guitarist bedecked in sequins.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Nanette kills the virtual Robert Daly with his own ceremonial knife through his skull.
    Adam B. Vary, Variety, 10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Last year, many Orthodox Christians in Ukraine celebrated on December 25 for the first time, shifting away from Russian customs toward Western conventions and widely seen as a snub to Russia and its orthodox church, which has endorsed Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.
    Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 26 Dec. 2024
  • But having one of the masters of orthodox Hollywood storytelling at my side, by the monitor every single day, was so immensely helpful.
    William Earl, Variety, 26 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Yes, this Amazon tiny home includes a full bathroom, complete with a roomy shower, a standard toilet, and a sink.
    Katrina Cossey, Parents, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Braking, via 4-wheel disc brakes with standard ABS, is efficient.
    Josh Max, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Conventional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/conventional. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

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