Synonym Chooser

How is the word temperament distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of temperament are character, disposition, personality, and temper. While all these words mean "the dominant quality or qualities distinguishing a person or group," temperament implies a pattern of innate characteristics associated with one's specific physical and nervous organization.

an artistic temperament

Where would character be a reasonable alternative to temperament?

While in some cases nearly identical to temperament, character applies to the aggregate of moral qualities by which a person is judged apart from intelligence, competence, or special talents.

strength of character

When could disposition be used to replace temperament?

While the synonyms disposition and temperament are close in meaning, disposition implies customary moods and attitude toward the life around one.

a cheerful disposition

When is it sensible to use personality instead of temperament?

The words personality and temperament are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, personality applies to an aggregate of qualities that distinguish one as a person.

a somber personality

When would temper be a good substitute for temperament?

The meanings of temper and temperament largely overlap; however, temper implies the qualities acquired through experience that determine how a person or group meets difficulties or handles situations.

a resilient temper

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 temperament While deeply different in temperament, approach and oftentimes apparent sanity, both are offering versions of a security paradigm on migration, with Trump pushing for immediate mass deportation, and Harris supporting a hard-right border security bill. Alex Rivera, Los Angeles Times, 1 Nov. 2024 By a 5-point margin, more voters see Trump as a strong leader, while more say Harris has the right temperament to be president by 5 points. Dana Blanton, Fox News, 30 Oct. 2024 Van Orden, for his part, pushed back on questions about his temperament. Lawrence Andrea, Journal Sentinel, 6 Nov. 2024 We were impressed by her temperament, desire to bridge compromises and recognition that the council needs to rein in its focus. East Bay Times Editorial, The Mercury News, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for temperament 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • Things get complicated both for plot reasons and because every character in this movie is running way hotter than is advisable, and everyone is hard pressed to keep their tempers, needs, and desires in check.
    Samantha Allen, Them, 20 Nov. 2024
  • Peacock admitted to losing his temper and expressed regret for his action.
    Bradford Betz, Fox News, 14 Oct. 2024
Noun
  • Taking up lots of space in the frame and spreading your limbs wide creates a powerful disposition.
    Margaret Cirino, NPR, 6 Dec. 2024
  • The Pollocks were apprehended and await disposition of their case.
    Antonio Fins, USA TODAY, 15 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Don't be the boss who overshadows the party with a bad attitude or inappropriate behavior.
    Jason Walker, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024
  • Some of Trump’s current Cabinet picks, such as defense-secretary nominee Pete Hegseth, resemble these appointees in their attitudes and positions.
    Kori Schake, The Atlantic, 30 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near temperament

Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on temperament

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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