Synonym Chooser

How is the word intact distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of intact are entire, perfect, and whole. While all these words mean "not lacking or faulty in any particular," intact implies retention of perfection of a thing in its natural or original state.

the boat survived the storm intact

When might entire be a better fit than intact?

While in some cases nearly identical to intact, entire implies perfection deriving from integrity, soundness, or completeness of a thing.

the entire Beethoven corpus

In what contexts can perfect take the place of intact?

The words perfect and intact can be used in similar contexts, but perfect implies the soundness and the excellence of every part, element, or quality of a thing frequently as an unattainable or theoretical state.

a perfect set of teeth

When would whole be a good substitute for intact?

The words whole and intact are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, whole suggests a completeness or perfection that can be sought, gained, or regained.

felt like a whole person again after vacation

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 intact Despite the loss, Ishii's legacy in the world of professional wrestling remains intact. Justin Gest, Newsweek, 20 Jan. 2025 Biden’s longtime friend, Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC), introduced Biden and assured him that his legacy was intact. Brady Knox, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 19 Jan. 2025 Would the Twins be better off dealing pitcher Chris Paddack, who will make $7.5 million this season, and reallocating those resources to another player or keeping their solid starting pitching depth intact? Dan Hayes, The Athletic, 17 Jan. 2025 After one iteration of Mickey dies, a new body is regenerated with most of his memories intact. Sara Merican, Deadline, 10 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for intact 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • One interested observer watched the entire process unfold in disbelief, wondering why the immensely popular, multi-multi-billion-dollar sport doesn’t seek a better way— a cleaner, more transparent means of selecting its playoff participants.
    Jon Wilner, Chicago Tribune, 18 Jan. 2025
  • Whether aiming for a serene spa-like retreat or a vibrant, modern atmosphere, the right bath mat can set the tone for the entire room.
    Jené Luciani Sena, Fox News, 18 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Your family’s efforts, across a whole generation, to establish financial stability, literally up in smoke.
    Zoë Schlanger, The Atlantic, 18 Jan. 2025
  • Took a whole lotta tryin' Just to get up that hill.
    Marc Berman, Forbes, 18 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Once that’s complete, you will get connected with a healthcare provider licensed in your state to start your diagnosis and explore potential treatments.
    Chloe Castleberry, Flow Space, 24 Jan. 2025
  • Jenkins, meanwhile, has helped usher in a complete rethink of Memphis’ offense, one that has made the Grizzlies both unpredictable and effective and led what has historically been a defensive-first squad to a top-five rating on offense.
    John Hollinger, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • What follows is a thriller full of twists and turns, one that could be ripe for the international market as Japan looks to find its place in the modern landscape.
    Max Goldbart, Deadline, 14 Jan. 2025
  • The reservoirs for the city of Los Angeles, through the metropolitan water district, are full.
    Danielle Chemtob, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Still, Edwards doesn’t profess to be a future Caleb Williams or even junior quarterback Mason Atkins, who led the Blackhawks to a perfect 9-0 regular season and the Class 8A playoffs last fall.
    Rick Armstrong, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2025
  • Ken Rosenthal | Full story Ichiro made sure every detail was perfect, an example his former Marlins teammates haven’t forgotten Ichiro Suzuki once took teammate Dan Straily out for a sushi dinner during a road trip in Philadelphia.
    The Athletic, The Athletic, 21 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Finally, employers should engage legal counsel and technical experts to conduct comprehensive compliance reviews.
    Alonzo Martinez, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025
  • The sharp decline in population—unprecedented in the absence of war, disease or famine—is concerning for the Chinese Communist Party government, which measures the one-party state's overall strength in comprehensive national power and comes amid an economic slowdown and an aging workforce.
    Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 17 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near intact

Cite this Entry

“Intact.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/intact. Accessed 28 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on intact

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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