Synonym Chooser

How is the word caprice distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of caprice are crotchet, vagary, and whim. While all these words mean "an irrational or unpredictable idea or desire," caprice stresses lack of apparent motivation and suggests willfulness.

by sheer caprice she quit her job

When could crotchet be used to replace caprice?

In some situations, the words crotchet and caprice are roughly equivalent. However, crotchet implies an eccentric opinion or preference.

a serious scientist equally known for his bizarre crotchets

Where would vagary be a reasonable alternative to caprice?

The words vagary and caprice can be used in similar contexts, but vagary stresses the erratic, irresponsible character of the notion or desire.

he had been prone to strange vagaries

When can whim be used instead of caprice?

The synonyms whim and caprice are sometimes interchangeable, but whim implies a fantastic, capricious turn of mind or inclination.

an odd antique that was bought on a whim

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 caprice My rebellious nature, and my inclination for pointing out her caprices may have sharpened her disfavor. Kathy Ehrich Dowd, TIME, 10 Oct. 2024 Alone in her room with her array of makeshift miniature dolls, she is led by the caprice of her imagination. Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 25 June 2024 There’s a sense of interior chaos to Lee’s designs for Mercy’s space that reflects a messy character and the caprice of Hong Kong landlords. Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 17 June 2024 Take Zendaya, whose charmingly uneven incisors are a testament to the power that comes from not bowing to the caprices of fashion. Vulture Editors, Vulture, 23 May 2024 See All Example Sentences for caprice

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Caprice.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/caprice. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on caprice

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!