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Synonym Chooser

How is the word dramatic distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of dramatic are histrionic, melodramatic, and theatrical. While all these words mean "having a character or an effect like that of acted plays," dramatic applies to situations in life and literature that stir the imagination and emotions deeply.

a dramatic meeting of world leaders

In what contexts can histrionic take the place of dramatic?

Although the words histrionic and dramatic have much in common, histrionic applies to tones, gestures, and motions and suggests a deliberate affectation or staginess.

a histrionic show of grief

When would melodramatic be a good substitute for dramatic?

While in some cases nearly identical to dramatic, melodramatic suggests an exaggerated emotionalism or an inappropriate theatricalism.

made a melodramatic plea

When can theatrical be used instead of dramatic?

While the synonyms theatrical and dramatic are close in meaning, theatrical implies a crude appeal through artificiality or exaggeration in gesture or vocal expression.

a theatrical oration

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 dramatic Microsoft backed off on almost all of Windows 8’s design decisions in the following years after the dramatic UI shift proved unpopular with traditional mouse-and-keyboard users, but touchscreen PCs like Microsoft’s Surface lineup have persisted even as the software has changed. Andrew Cunningham, ArsTechnica, 17 Sep. 2025 These dramatic blooms attract pollinators and grow well in rock gardens. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 17 Sep. 2025 But World War II caused a change in her life that was both drastic and dramatic. Literary Hub, 17 Sep. 2025 Once Ohtani was out of the game, the Phillies pounced, scoring six runs in the sixth inning and taking a 9-6 win thanks to a dramatic three-run home run from backup catcher Rafael Marchán in the top of the ninth. Jackson Roberts, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dramatic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dramatic
Adjective
  • When compared with the DeathAdder V4 Pro, the difference is slight but noticeable.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 18 Sep. 2025
  • The New Shape of the Curve Year-to-date production growth for 2025 marks a noticeable deceleration compared to the peak shale boom years, when annual growth often ran in the double digits.
    Robert Rapier, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Here, the great theatrical advocate of wisdom-through-argument admits that argument itself has treacherous ramifications.
    Helen Shaw, New Yorker, 18 Sep. 2025
  • One idea floated by that distributor is to simply lengthen theatrical windows.
    Brian Welk, IndieWire, 18 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The inquiry also scrutinized prominent Trump allies, including Sidney Powell, Rudy Giuliani, and Stephen Miller, along with dozens of consultants and political action committees tied to the former president’s orbit.
    Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 18 Sep. 2025
  • Almost a week after one of America’s most prominent conservative activists was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University, a 22-year-old man accused of executing the attack with his grandfather’s rifle appeared in court Tuesday to face state charges.
    Taylor Romine, CNN Money, 17 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Their duel is brutal and operatic, the culmination of years of tension between Cleonic brothers.
    JP Mangalindan, Time, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Previous games have usually centered on large scale wars between nations with operatic narratives.
    Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Join us in celebrating the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Charlie Kirk, an American legend.
    Lauren Green, The Washington Examiner, 16 Sep. 2025
  • After exiting Real Madrid in 2021 — spending a remarkable 16 years with the Spanish club — Sergio Ramos spent the next two years hunkered down writing and producing music.
    Griselda Flores, Billboard, 16 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Andersen, who previously worked for the San Antonio Police Department, has ruddy cheeks and a commanding presence.
    Rachel Monroe, New Yorker, 16 Sep. 2025
  • Irvine ran the ball, passed the ball and slowed down Laguna Hills’ uptempo offense with a commanding defensive display.
    Martin Henderson, Oc Register, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The team's away record is also impressive, with two wins and one draw, showcasing its ability to perform under pressure in hostile environments.
    Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Sep. 2025
  • Also, while the 16 Plus' battery life isn’t class-leading, its 167-nit brightness at our 50% testing setting is impressive, particularly compared with the Asus and Samsung.
    Charles Jefferies, PC Magazine, 18 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • There is a striking demographic contrast here though, as only a third of the 65+ age group trust smart devices for payments.
    David G.W. Birch, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025
  • The glamorous look is more daring than Robbie's usual red carpet choices, but stands out as a striking entry in the naked dress trend.
    Charles Trepany, USA Today, 13 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Dramatic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dramatic. Accessed 21 Sep. 2025.

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