Synonym Chooser

How is the word poignant distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of poignant are affecting, impressive, moving, pathetic, and touching. While all these words mean "having the power to produce deep emotion," poignant applies to what keenly or sharply affects one's sensitivities.

a poignant documentary on the homeless

How do affecting and moving relate to one another, in the sense of poignant?

Affecting is close to moving but most often suggests pathos.

an affecting deathbed reunion

When can impressive be used instead of poignant?

In some situations, the words impressive and poignant are roughly equivalent. However, impressive implies compelling attention, admiration, wonder, or conviction.

an impressive list of achievements

In what contexts can moving take the place of poignant?

Although the words moving and poignant have much in common, moving may apply to any strong emotional effect including thrilling, agitating, saddening, or calling forth pity or sympathy.

a moving appeal for contributions

When might pathetic be a better fit than poignant?

The words pathetic and poignant can be used in similar contexts, but pathetic implies moving to pity or sometimes contempt.

pathetic attempts to justify misconduct

When is touching a more appropriate choice than poignant?

While in some cases nearly identical to poignant, touching implies arousing tenderness or compassion.

the touching innocence in a child's eyes

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 poignant Late actor Michael Madsen is really put through the wringer in the poignant trailer for Mr. Wonderful, one of his final on-screen roles. Lauren Huff, EW.com, 11 July 2025 Quite often, Superman Returns is a poignant homage and a melancholy reminder that the era that birthed the original Superman movies is long gone. Tim Grierson, Vulture, 11 July 2025 The documentary features a poignant quote by former first lady Rosalynn Carter on caregiving. Korin Miller, Flow Space, 9 July 2025 Willie chimed in for the chorus, a poignant father-son duet that was exactly what the song needed. Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 7 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for poignant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for poignant
Adjective
  • Stacy sought to foster emotional and physical self-reliance among its campers, according to Texas Monthly, which cited an old brochure from her time.
    Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 5 July 2025
  • Cortisol rises during times of emotional or physical stress.
    Renée Onque, CNBC, 5 July 2025
Adjective
  • But after its three-year hiatus, the food chain is re-releasing the sandwich, now with three versions to choose from—original, spicy and grilled.
    Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 15 July 2025
  • Ginger Beer: As ever, the spicier the ginger beer, the better.
    Jason O'Bryan, Robb Report, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • Both have been lauded for their dedication and impressive in-ring performances, with Logan Paul currently reigning as the United States Champion.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 July 2025
  • This hybrid drivetrain delivers a total of 437 hp and an impressive 583 pound-feet torque.
    Karl Brauer, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • My favorite dish here was a piquant ceviche served with tortilla chips.
    Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 7 June 2025
  • And to think, this pitiless conquistador came to North America as a humble kitchen herb, deliberately imported by European settlers for its piquant flavor.
    Zoë Lescaze, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Since the lawyers meet to try the city’s best restaurant, there are plenty of close-ups of their meals and everything looks delicious.
    Joan MacDonald, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025
  • Pick up some bright red tomatoes for a salad, homemade soap, vegetables for a delicious dinner or fresh bread straight from the oven at your local market.
    Kaitlyn Keegan, Hartford Courant, 6 July 2025
Adjective
  • Law enforcement has uncovered everything from cocaine hidden among bananas to heroin stashed among pungent shipments of garlic and onions.
    Michael Loria, USA Today, 2 July 2025
  • Each bite leaves a pungent sheen of olive oil upon your lips, a sort of true love’s kiss for people who really get down with cold cuts.
    Bradley Hohulin, IndyStar, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • The contrast between ancient history and modern life was fascinating.
    Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 July 2025
  • Sam Amick wrote a fascinating notebook about the scene in Los Angeles, where both the Lakers and Clippers have prioritized flexibility this offseason with the future in mind.
    Chris Branch, New York Times, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • The Ham Yard Fruit Tea (berries and hibiscus) offers a light, zesty contrast to traditional sweets.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 12 July 2025
  • Sonic's menu says the former has a zesty Baja cheese sauce, while the latter includes melty Cheddar and honey chipotle aioli.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 11 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

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

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