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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 The 139-footer, known as the 42 Exuma, has a novel layout that defies conventional superyacht design and an elegant interior that bears the hallmarks of a master couturier. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 11 July 2025 Twice per day, on the way up and back down, Kosmos 2589 briefly passes near a large number of US government and commercial satellites in more conventional geosynchronous orbits but then quickly departs the vicinity. Robert Pearlman, ArsTechnica, 11 July 2025 Unlike conventional clay bricks, which are fired in high-temperature kilns, fly ash bricks are manufactured at room temperature, thereby conserving energy. Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 10 July 2025 These jets are certified to carry conventional munitions as well as U.S. tactical nuclear weapons, picked instead of more of the F-35B variants the U.K. already has. Ellie Cook, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for conventional
Recent Examples of Synonyms for conventional
Adjective
  • As usual, Trump did most of the talking, but Rutte was clearly on board and confirmed key details.
    Daniel Fried, Time, 15 July 2025
  • For deeper repair, apply generously as an overnight scalp and hair mask, then wash and style as usual the next day.
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • From puberty to post-menopause, hormones significantly impact women's health experiences—yet they're often dismissed, misunderstood, or inadequately addressed in traditional healthcare settings.
    Essence, Essence, 7 July 2025
  • Masked dancers in traditional outfits twirled to the sounds of gongs, pipes and horns as the Dalai Lama was led into the complex by two attendants.
    Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 6 July 2025
Adjective
  • Mamdani has secured endorsements from Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and independent Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, but lacks formal support from Hochul and two other prominent New York lawmakers, Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Hakeem Jeffries.
    Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025
  • In addition to the cupola lounge, the suite includes a living room, two dressing areas, a bar, a formal dining room for 12 guests, and both an open chef’s kitchen, for interacting with guests, and a professional prep kitchen.
    Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • Here’s how Wheeler has fared against current Padres in the regular season: The 35-year-old veteran threw 41 of his 63 pitches for strikes in Monday’s season debut, allowing two runs on three hits and three walks in 3⅔ innings in a loss.
    Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 July 2025
  • In its current form, the restaurant offers a five-course tasting menu for the rough equivalent of $82 with the option of an even more affordable three-course meal for about $59.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • The court did not explain its decision in favor of Trump, as is customary in emergency appeals.
    Mark Sherman, Chicago Tribune, 14 July 2025
  • In a sport where sunglasses haven’t been customary on the pro tour, RIA Eyewear entered the space five years ago with a tennis-specific lens and frame, steadily building a bridge between the world of tennis and sunglasses.
    Tim Newcomb, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • Secretary of State Henry Kissinger sat just behind home plate alongside baseball commissioner Bowie Kuhn, and he was tasked with throwing out the ceremonial first pitch.
    Hope Karnopp, jsonline.com, 14 July 2025
  • The first 20,000 fans will receive a Barry Bonds bobblehead, and Bonds will throw out the ceremonial first pitch in addition to other pregame festivities honoring the all-time home run king.
    Evan Webeck, Mercury News, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • Funds could support conservative seminaries like Nashotah House, a conservative seminary in the Anglican tradition, or pastors from the Conservative Congregational Christian Conference, ensuring orthodox leadership for historic churches.
    The Rev. Jake Dell, Hartford Courant, 7 July 2025
  • The religious advisory board includes Christian and Jewish members from traditions including Catholicism, evangelicalism, Greek Orthodox Christianity and orthodox Judaism.
    BrieAnna J. Frank, USA Today, 17 June 2025
Adjective
  • In this way, the image captures both the bright corona, visible from Earth only during a total solar eclipse, as well as fine details that standard exposures would miss.
    Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 July 2025
  • Some vehicles come standard with anti-theft systems and tech like engine immobilizers.
    Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 14 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Conventional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/conventional. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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