Synonym Chooser

How is the word affix distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of affix are attach, fasten, and fix. While all these words mean "to make something stay firmly in place," affix implies an imposing of one thing on another by gluing, impressing, or nailing.

affix your address label here

When can attach be used instead of affix?

The words attach and affix are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, attach suggests a connecting or uniting by a bond, link, or tie in order to keep things together.

attach the W-2 form here

When is it sensible to use fasten instead of affix?

The synonyms fasten and affix are sometimes interchangeable, but fasten implies an action such as tying, buttoning, nailing, locking, or otherwise securing.

fasten the reins to a post

When might fix be a better fit than affix?

While in some cases nearly identical to affix, fix usually implies a driving in, implanting, or embedding.

fixed the stake in the ground

Examples 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 affix Paz printed out a stencil for the number, and Dez affixed it to each potential spot. Michael Schulman, The New Yorker, 14 Oct. 2024 More importantly, this Gateway build bears Carroll Shelby’s signature on a dash plaque affixed to the glovebox. Michael Van Runkle, Robb Report, 2 Nov. 2024 Gone are the cumbersome air hoses and control consoles; now the boots, which offer seven levels of intensity, are charged and controlled via an iPhone Max-sized touchscreen affixed to the outer thigh of each leg, or using the partner app. Ashley Mateo, TIME, 30 Oct. 2024 Banners and signs must be hand-held and may not obstruct the view of other guests or Footprint Center advertising signage or be temporarily or permanently affixed to the building structure. Ed Masley, The Arizona Republic, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for affix 

Thesaurus Entries Near affix

Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on affix

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