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noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb embrace differ from other similar words?

The words adopt and espouse are common synonyms of embrace. While all three words mean "to take an opinion, policy, or practice as one's own," embrace implies a ready or happy acceptance.

embraced the customs of their new homeland

When could adopt be used to replace embrace?

The meanings of adopt and embrace largely overlap; however, adopt implies accepting something created by another or foreign to one's nature.

forced to adopt new policies

Where would espouse be a reasonable alternative to embrace?

The synonyms espouse and embrace are sometimes interchangeable, but espouse adds an implication of close attachment to a cause and a sharing of its fortunes.

espoused the cause of women's rights

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 embrace
Verb
What might have been a fleeting, lighthearted moment turned viral when viewers realized the pair were executives at the same tech company and neither had intended for their embrace to become a public spectacle. Sandy Carter, Forbes.com, 26 July 2025 Khamenei has always been loyal to Moscow, but with his position now weakened, criticism of his embrace of Russia is growing louder. Michael McFaul, Foreign Affairs, 25 July 2025
Noun
The fashion and lifestyle influencer wore a silky, white gown for the occasion, which blew in the wind as the couple embraced. Bailey Richards, People.com, 30 July 2025 Vivien Jong, chief digital and AI officer for Asia at BNP Paribas Wealth Management, noted that younger clients have embraced AI due to its speed and transparency. Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 29 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for embrace
Recent Examples of Synonyms for embrace
Verb
  • Mothers crying out loud for their children, and fathers hugging their children close to their chests.
    Troy Onyango, Time, 24 July 2025
  • In this sweet, candid moment, Lopez hugs her babies while backstage on the Marry Me set.
    Stephanie Sengwe, People.com, 24 July 2025
Verb
  • Open up the panels for a cooler, roomier feel, or layer in more blankets and wrap it up tight on chillier nights.
    Francesca Krempa, Travel + Leisure, 25 July 2025
  • As guests arrived, they were treated to tote bags filled with various goodies, including fresh baguettes wrapped in personalized tissue paper designed by Mariee Ami's vice president of graphic design, Mary Baugh, who was behind all of the wedding artwork.
    Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 25 July 2025
Verb
  • That dog survived the shooting and was eventually adopted by MADACC staff.
    Drake Bentley, jsonline.com, 27 July 2025
  • Per his website, Judy is the daughter of Rosalind's late sister and was adopted by the Joel family.
    Jordana Comiter, People.com, 26 July 2025
Verb
  • The competition is open to U.S. residents age 18 and over, and welcomes concepts and businesses in the early stages of development.
    Alejandra Rojas, Forbes.com, 30 July 2025
  • Fortunately, organizations like Outreach Indiana are already doing the groundwork, offering essentials like fresh clothes, hot meals, showers, and a safe, welcoming space for youth in need.
    Ethan Hylton, IndyStar, 30 July 2025
Verb
  • Camping fees include WiFi, showers, restrooms, a laundry room and admission to Bedrock City and raptor flight shows.
    Tiffany Acosta, AZCentral.com, 25 July 2025
  • Penalties for breaking the rules include confiscation and further disciplinary action.
    Diana Leyva, The Tennessean, 25 July 2025
Verb
  • There's Union Terminal, surrounded by bright green trees and a streetcar that bisects the edge of Queensgate.
    Sydney Franklin, The Enquirer, 31 July 2025
  • Cooked over a crackling fire, surrounded by pitch pines, lightning bugs and scurrying squirrels, even something simple like a skillet of nachos can go from good to remarkable.
    The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 July 2025
Noun
  • His performance suggests growing acceptance among parts of the Jewish electorate—particularly younger and less religious voters—of candidates who hold critical views of Israeli policy, potentially signaling a shift in the priorities of one of the city's most influential voting blocs.
    Daniel Orton, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 July 2025
  • Blue Jays batter Ernie Clement stepped away from the dish in what appeared to be his acceptance of the first-pitch strike.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 29 July 2025
Noun
  • The recent qualification of Italy - which generated global headlines - has invigorated administrators and was further evidence that cricket’s depth is increasing beyond traditional footholds.
    Tristan Lavalette, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
  • One with new trails and challenges and footholds that require their full focus.
    Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 23 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Embrace.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/embrace. Accessed 7 Aug. 2025.

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