variants also fantastical
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word fantastic different from other adjectives like it?

The words bizarre and grotesque are common synonyms of fantastic. While all three words mean "conceived, made, or carried out without adherence to truth or reality," fantastic may connote extravagance in conception or ingenuity of decorative invention.

dreamed up fantastic rumors

When is it sensible to use bizarre instead of fantastic?

The meanings of bizarre and fantastic largely overlap; however, bizarre applies to the sensationally strange and implies violence of contrast or incongruity of combination.

a bizarre medieval castle in the heart of a modern city

Where would grotesque be a reasonable alternative to fantastic?

Although the words grotesque and fantastic have much in common, grotesque may apply to what is conventionally ugly but artistically effective or it may connote ludicrous awkwardness or incongruity often with sinister or tragic overtones.

grotesque statues on the cathedral
though grieving, she made a grotesque attempt at a smile

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 fantastic The gals at Always Booked put together the most fantastic event down to the tiniest detail. American Booksellers Association, USA TODAY, 9 Feb. 2025 There are plenty of places to get a great meal or a fantastic drink all over the world, but there are just a few that offer a stellar place to snap a few Instagram pictures, too. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 7 Feb. 2025 But everyone is doing such a fantastic job of good vibes and playing neutral. Dalton Ross, EW.com, 31 Jan. 2025 Each of its three huts includes fantastic views of the valley; there’s also a Jacuzzi and terrace. Chloe Arrojado, AFAR Media, 30 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for fantastic 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fantastic
Adjective
  • The bizarre clip, reportedly shot with an iPhone, featured West in a dentist’s chair asking people to go to the website.
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 10 Feb. 2025
  • Certainly, the eccentric characters and bizarre situations in his novels reflect a hallucinatory vision.
    Tom Vitale, NPR, 9 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Ferrell is on the cowbell, and fictional music producer Bruce Dickinson’s (Christopher Walken) gotta have more cowbell, baby.
    Tony Maglio, IndieWire, 11 Feb. 2025
  • But the film was fictional, largely focusing on the perspective of U.S. soldiers.
    Olivia B. Waxman, TIME, 10 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Its pint-size bottles of serum are seriously incredible too.
    Devon Abelman, Allure, 11 Feb. 2025
  • So to be able to share our love and passion for horses with each other is just incredible.
    Angel Saunders, People.com, 11 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Tucci hosts the popular Tucci - The Heart of Italy show which tours the country sampling and celebrating the wonderful food that originates there.
    Simon Perry, People.com, 8 Feb. 2025
  • This is a debut entry and a wonderful term that’s new to me.
    Caitlin Lovinger, New York Times, 8 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • But policymakers should never again ignore the basics in pursuit of fanciful heterodox solutions.
    Jason Furman, Foreign Affairs, 10 Feb. 2025
  • President Trump’s fanciful plan for Gaza will not happen; still his wacky vision actually undermines legitimate efforts to improve relations in the Mideast, with Israel’s Arab partners like Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia looking for the exits.
    New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 6 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • In this marvelous, world-building book, Okorafor again showcases her imaginative power and gift of storytelling.
    Lynnette Nicholas, Essence, 15 Jan. 2025
  • Now, another one is on its way, this one — bonus of all bonuses — featuring the marvelous Kara Young.
    Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 8 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • That’s when Cora fired up some kind of imaginary jukebox inside his head and proceeded to dance the day away.
    Steve Buckley, The Athletic, 16 Feb. 2025
  • Gradually, an imaginary narrative for the property took shape.
    Blaine Davis, New York Times, 11 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Lucas Bergvall and Dejan Kulusevski are excellent at carrying the ball and driving into space.
    Jay Harris, The Athletic, 17 Feb. 2025
  • With its affordable price, this coverlet is an excellent value for the quality.
    Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 17 Feb. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near fantastic

Cite this Entry

“Fantastic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fantastic. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on fantastic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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