What does synonymous mean?
Synonymous describes two words, terms, expressions, or ideas that have the same or nearly the same meaning. It is commonly followed by “with”: “The phrase is synonymous with the more formal expression.” The word can also describe a relationship between classifications, concepts, or observable features, as when two categories are described as broadly synonymous. Because synonyms are not always perfectly interchangeable in context, synonyms may differ in register, connotation, precision, or usage. For example, several words may express the same general idea while sounding more formal, technical, or idiomatic in a particular setting. Synonymous is therefore useful for identifying equivalence and avoiding repetition, but it does not necessarily mean that two expressions can be substituted in every sentence. The related noun synonym names a word with the same meaning as another, while synonymy refers more broadly to the condition of being synonymous or to the study of synonyms.
adjectiveHaving the same or nearly the same meaning as another word. Also, relating to or consisting of synonyms.
- Having the same or nearly the same meaning as another word.
- Relating to synonyms or to equivalence of meaning.
- Expressing or involving a substitution without a change in meaning, as in synonymous variants of an expression.
"The two terms are broadly synonymous, though one is more appropriate in formal writing."
"“Cheap” and “inexpensive” are synonymous in this context, although “affordable” may sound more natural."
"The report treats the two proposed classifications as virtually synonymous."
From Greek roots meaning “together” and “name,” a synonym is literally a word that means the same thing as another.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does synonymous come from?
The word entered English in the 16th century from Latin synonymus, a form of Greek synōnumos. The Greek elements syn- and onoma mean “together” and “name,” reflecting the idea of one word being equivalent to another. English later developed synonymous as an adjective and synonym as a related noun, with cognate forms such as synonymy and synonymically arising from the same source.
Related word forms
How synonymous is actually used
“Synonymous with” is the usual construction. The word can indicate exact or near equivalence, so it is especially common in formal and technical writing; in conversation, “a synonym for” or “another way to say” may sound more natural.
Easily confused with synonymous
A synonym is a word with the same meaning as another word, whereas synonymous is an adjective describing words or ideas that have equivalent meanings.
Homonymous words share a spelling or pronunciation but may have different meanings, while synonymous words share a meaning despite potentially differing in form.