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 The landed aristocracy of Great Britain long ago discovered that to be a way to keep their inheritance intact. Miami Herasld Archives, Miami Herald, 7 Jan. 2025 To all intents and purposes, his career at the top is done, but his willingness to speak his mind is definitely intact. Phil Hay, The Athletic, 7 Jan. 2025 At the end of last year, a farmer in eastern Turkey discovered a rare, largely intact late Roman mosaic while planting a cherry orchard. George Nelson For Artnews, Robb Report, 7 Jan. 2025 For investors that took the long term view, figures are still up 99% on 2016, suggesting the fundamental strength of the market remains intact. Mark Littler, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for intact 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for intact
Adjective
  • Putting Poeltl behind Anthony-Towns could give New York one of the best frontcourts in the entire NBA.
    David Faris, Newsweek, 18 Jan. 2025
  • Create a clean air space Another piece of advice is to focus on maintaining clean-air areas as opposed to an entire clean-air home.
    Tribune News Service, San Diego Union-Tribune, 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
  • The bulk of their diet should consist of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains.
    Allison Aubrey, NPR, 18 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Judge Andy Porter denied the suppression motion, and the jury viewed and listened to the complete interview, in which Nixon-Clark admitted firing the Kriss Vector rifle once outside the house.
    Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 Jan. 2025
  • By the end of the day, a total of three fires were leaving a path of complete destruction in the area.
    Lauryn Overhultz, Fox News, 12 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Teotihuacan was full of apartment compounds at its peak.
    Ashley Gardini, JSTOR Daily, 14 Jan. 2025
  • White is notorious for torching fighters, journalists, and judges during press conferences, and the UFC’s history is full of high-profile rifts between the CEO and some of his stars.
    Jack Crosbie, Rolling Stone, 14 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The bar is perfect for enjoying a cocktail after a day of exploring the city.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025
  • Summer Fridays Shade Drops cover it all and is a lightweight mineral option that’s also perfect for sensitive skin.
    Annita Katee, Travel + Leisure, 9 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Continue ahead for a comprehensive list of fashion and beauty brands that are committed to supporting the community in its time of need through donations of resources and/or a percentage proceeds to various relief funds.
    Shelby Ying Hyde, Vogue, 17 Jan. 2025
  • Finally, employers should engage legal counsel and technical experts to conduct comprehensive compliance reviews.
    Alonzo Martinez, Forbes, 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 22 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on intact

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