PATTERN Synonyms: 188 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'pattern' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of pattern are example , exemplar , ideal , and model . While all these words mean "someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation," pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype. // American industry set a pattern for others to follow

Q: When is it sensible to use 'example' instead of 'pattern'?

In some situations, the words example and pattern are roughly equivalent. However, example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning. // children tend to follow the example of their parents

Q: Where would 'exemplar' be a reasonable alternative to 'pattern'?

Although the words exemplar and pattern have much in common, exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification. // cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

Q: In what contexts can 'ideal' take the place of 'pattern'?

The meanings of ideal and pattern largely overlap; however, ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception. // never found a job that matched his ideal

Q: When might 'model' be a better fit than 'pattern'?

The words model and pattern are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation. // a decor that is a model of good taste

pattern 1 of 2

noun

ˈpa-tərn

Definition of pattern next

as in motif

a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric) a coverlet with a nosegay of tiny pink roses as the pattern

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as in ritual

a usual manner of behaving or doing her daily pattern begins with coffee and a bagel every morning for breakfast

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as in routine

an established and often automatic or monotonous series of actions followed when engaging in some activity with her, everything must be done strictly according to pattern

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as in design

the way in which the elements of something (as a work of art) are arranged many of the artist's paintings use the same pattern of a lone figure surrounded by a vast landscape

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pattern

2 of 2

verb

as in to model

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

misadjust

as in to stripe

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How does the noun pattern differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of pattern are example, exemplar, ideal, and model. While all these words mean "someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation," pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype.

American industry set a pattern for others to follow

When is it sensible to use example instead of pattern?

In some situations, the words example and pattern are roughly equivalent. However, example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning.

children tend to follow the example of their parents

Where would exemplar be a reasonable alternative to pattern?

Although the words exemplar and pattern have much in common, exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification.

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

In what contexts can ideal take the place of pattern?

The meanings of ideal and pattern largely overlap; however, ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception.

never found a job that matched his ideal

When might model be a better fit than pattern?

The words model and pattern are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation.

a decor that is a model of good taste

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 pattern

Noun

Constructed in the mid-1920s, the six-bedroom mansion celebrates traditional Mexican interiors with clever use of color, texture, and, of course, intricate tile patterns. —

Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 23 Jan. 2025 Coral damage was also accelerated last year by the El Niño weather pattern, which heats ocean temperatures in this part of the world. —

Helen Regan, CNN, 23 Jan. 2025

Verb

This was no primly patterned minuet, where dancers stood side by side, attention directed to precisely mapping elaborate steps. —

Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times, 31 Dec. 2024 Some folks choose to incorporate bright, bold colors into their bathrooms, with a textured mat or patterned shower curtains. —

Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 29 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pattern

Recent Examples of Synonyms for pattern

Noun

Much like the song, a marching band is present in the preview, with a heavy sports motif serving as the foundation for the vision.

— Marc Griffin, VIBE.com, 31 Jan. 2025
An unusual Victorian-style chair with a star motif is upholstered in rich burgundy velvet.

— Sonia S. Braga, Architectural Digest, 28 Jan. 2025

Definition of motif

Cite this Entry

Style

“Pattern.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pattern. Accessed 7 Feb. 2025.

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Last Updated: 7 Feb 2025 - Updated example sentences

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Synonyms of pattern

noun

verb

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