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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective sublime contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of sublime are glorious, gorgeous, resplendent, splendid, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When can glorious be used instead of sublime?

The synonyms glorious and sublime are sometimes interchangeable, but glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When would gorgeous be a good substitute for sublime?

Although the words gorgeous and sublime have much in common, gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

When is resplendent a more appropriate choice than sublime?

The words resplendent and sublime are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

Where would splendid be a reasonable alternative to sublime?

The meanings of splendid and sublime largely overlap; however, splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When is it sensible to use superb instead of sublime?

While the synonyms superb and sublime are close in meaning, superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree.

her singing was superb

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 sublime The silhouettes evoked an ’80s attitude with a modern twist, while his use of silk and linen in soft seaside tones was simply sublime. Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 23 June 2025 In the original show, the character dynamics are sublime, as are the designs. Rafael Motamayor, Vulture, 4 June 2025 Besides, Mexicans have a far better dish that combines the soft with the crunchy to create something sublime. Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2025 Not only has the film already received rave reviews ahead of its June 27 release for its deeply personal and captivating storyline and sublime cast and acting, but the independent film is also making history by being entirely self-financed and nationally distributed. Maia Niguel Hoskin, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for sublime
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sublime
Adjective
  • Royal titles are reserved for those born into or marrying into the family, while dukedoms and other noble titles are passed down through a family or granted by the reigning monarch.
    Stephanie Petit, People.com, 6 July 2025
  • He’s covered in sweat and using a scrap of cardboard as a fan—not for himself, but for the tides of people who pass him, in a noble effort to keep them cool.
    Richard Collett, Saveur, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • In fact, her record is astonishing as a manager at the Euros with 12 wins from 12 matches.
    Darren Richman, New York Times, 5 July 2025
  • The circle's latest trick in its astonishing 100-year history?
    Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • This is a great NBA Summer League matchup; make sure to tune in and catch all the action.
    Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025
  • Disneyland loves to celebrate decades and there has been none bigger than the current one that has seen unparalleled growth greater than any decade in park history — including the first that Walt Disney personally oversaw.
    Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • So many wonderful age gap and power dynamics going on in this novel that really set the tone for a whole generation of writers to come.
    Hattie Williams July 14, Literary Hub, 14 July 2025
  • This no-churn ice cream recipe extracts all the wonderful flavor from the corn by simmering both the kernels and cobs in whipping cream and sweetened condensed milk to make sure every bite is filled with corn flavor.
    Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • Supertall skyscrapers are buildings that stand 300 meters (around 984 feet) or higher, according to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat.
    Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025
  • In Chicago, that figure is even higher, with the average nuptials ringing up at $54,190, per the wedding planning service.
    Bailey Richards, People.com, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • Apple’s iOS 26 is coming this fall, along with some amazing new features for your iPhone, many of which are powered by Apple Intelligence AI — alongside a new design language dubbed Liquid Glass.
    Kate O'Flaherty, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • The shoes have amazing cushioning that provides serious support, which was ideal for long walks in Athens.
    Alexis Benveniste, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • Fiennes exhibits that side of him without apology, which only makes his gallant side feel all the more genuine.
    Joe Reid, Vulture, 12 June 2025
  • Each year, Scouts, Scouters, veterans and other community groups from all over the Bay Area gather in tribute to these gallant men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country.
    Karl Mondon, Mercury News, 25 May 2025
Adjective
  • The fact that any programming – sports or not – can cut through that clutter and reach 10 million or more households is frankly miraculous at this point.
    John Cassillo, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025
  • And then there’s The Big Piece, a feat of recovery that feels miraculous for entirely different reasons.
    Jordan Runtagh, People.com, 6 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

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

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