Synonyms of Great, like excellent, outstanding, and superb, offer more precise and expressive ways to highlight quality, success, or admiration. If the word “great” feels too vague or repetitive in your writing or speech, this guide will help you upgrade your vocabulary with 30 rich alternatives.
Each synonym of great includes a clear meaning, an example sentence, and tips on when and where to use it—whether you’re praising a performance, describing a product, or giving feedback.
From casual conversation to formal writing, these Synonyms of Great will help you sound more thoughtful and impactful. Say more than just “great”—say exactly what you mean.
Synonyms of Great Examples
1. Excellent
Meaning: Extremely good; of the highest quality.
Use When: You want to sound formal or professional.
Example: Her presentation was excellent—well-researched and confidently delivered.
2. Amazing
Meaning: Causing wonder or surprise.
Use When: You want to convey enthusiasm or emotional impact.
Example: That concert was amazing! I’ve never seen anything like it.
3. Outstanding
Meaning: Exceptionally good.
Use When: You want to highlight something that surpasses expectations.
Example: His service record was outstanding in every respect.
4. Incredible
Meaning: Hard to believe due to being so impressive.
Use When: Emphasizing awe or disbelief.
Example: The special effects were incredible—you’d think it was real.
5. Remarkable
Meaning: Worthy of notice or attention.
Use When: Highlighting something unique or notable.
Example: Her recovery was remarkable after such a severe injury.
6. Impressive
Meaning: Evoking admiration through quality or skill.
Use When: You want to sound respectful or observant.
Example: His ability to solve problems under pressure is impressive.
7. Marvelous
Meaning: Causing great wonder or delight.
Use When: You want to sound upbeat or whimsical.
Example: We had a marvelous time at the countryside retreat.
8. Wonderful
Meaning: Inspiring delight or pleasure.
Use When: Describing experiences or people positively and warmly.
Example: You’ve been a wonderful host—thank you for everything.
9. Terrific
Meaning: Very good or enjoyable.
Use When: You want an informal, enthusiastic tone.
Example: That was a terrific idea—you saved us hours of work.
10. Superb
Meaning: Of the highest quality.
Use When: You want to sound sophisticated or elegant.
Example: The meal was superb, especially the dessert.
11. Fabulous
Meaning: Almost unbelievable; extremely good.
Use When: You’re aiming for fun, stylish, or upbeat vibes.
Example: You look fabulous in that outfit!
12. Brilliant
Meaning: Exceptionally clever or talented.
Use When: You want to praise intellect or creativity.
Example: She had a brilliant solution to the design flaw.
13. Phenomenal
Meaning: Extraordinary or exceptional.
Use When: Describing something rare or above ordinary standards.
Example: His performance was phenomenal—flawless from start to finish.
14. Stellar
Meaning: Outstanding, like a star.
Use When: You want a trendy or modern flair.
Example: She did a stellar job managing the launch.
15. Exceptional
Meaning: Unusually excellent.
Use When: You want to sound formal or academic.
Example: He’s an exceptional student with a passion for learning.
16. Top-notch
Meaning: Of the highest standard.
Use When: You want to be casual but specific.
Example: That’s a top-notch repair—can’t even see the damage anymore.
17. Super
Meaning: Informally excellent.
Use When: You’re being cheerful or casual.
Example: The kids had a super time at the zoo.
18. Cool
Meaning: Admired or stylish.
Use When: You’re being informal or socially expressive.
Example: That’s such a cool idea for a party theme.
19. Magnificent
Meaning: Grand or splendid.
Use When: You’re aiming for a dramatic or majestic tone.
Example: The view from the summit was magnificent.
20. First-rate
Meaning: Of the highest class or quality.
Use When: You want to sound professional or formal.
Example: She’s a first-rate editor—sharp and detail-oriented.
21. Glorious
Meaning: Worthy of admiration or honor.
Use When: You want a poetic or noble tone.
Example: It was a glorious day filled with sunshine and laughter.
22. Astonishing
Meaning: Very surprising or impressive.
Use When: You want to emphasize the element of surprise.
Example: His progress in just two weeks was astonishing.
23. Delightful
Meaning: Highly pleasing or enjoyable.
Use When: Talking about people or light-hearted experiences.
Example: The afternoon tea was absolutely delightful.
24. Impeccable
Meaning: Flawless or perfect.
Use When: You’re praising behavior, style, or quality.
Example: Her manners were impeccable throughout the evening.
25. Supreme
Meaning: Highest in rank or quality.
Use When: You want to stress ultimate authority or excellence.
Example: This is the supreme example of modern craftsmanship.
26. Wondrous
Meaning: Inspiring a sense of wonder.
Use When: Writing creatively or poetically.
Example: The northern lights were a wondrous sight.
27. Heroic
Meaning: Admirably brave or noble.
Use When: Describing actions with moral greatness.
Example: Her actions during the fire were truly heroic.
28. Grand
Meaning: Impressive in scale or dignity.
Use When: Talking about scale or ceremony.
Example: They held a grand celebration for their 50th anniversary.
29. Breathtaking
Meaning: Stunning or awe-inspiring.
Use When: Describing visual or emotional impact.
Example: The sunset over the ocean was simply breathtaking.
30. Valuable
Meaning: Of great worth or usefulness.
Use When: Emphasizing practical or intrinsic importance.
Example: Her feedback was incredibly valuable to our team.
How to Choose the Right Synonym for Great
When selecting a synonym, consider:
- Tone: Formal, informal, enthusiastic, poetic?
- Context: Are you writing an email, essay, caption, or review?
- Emotional Flavor: Do you want to express admiration, delight, awe, or gratitude?
For example:
- Writing a professional reference? “Exceptional,” “Outstanding,” or “First-rate” might fit.
- Talking about a travel experience? Try “Wondrous,” “Magnificent,” or “Delightful.”
- Complimenting a friend? Go with “Amazing,” “Fabulous,” or “Terrific.”
Also, be mindful of cultural nuance—words like “cool” or “super” are very casual in American English but might not resonate the same way elsewhere.
Conclusion:
The word “great” is versatile, but using more precise synonyms like excellent, remarkable, outstanding, or impressive can elevate your language and make your message more impactful. Whether you’re writing formally or speaking casually, having a range of alternatives helps you express yourself more clearly and creatively.
So next time you’re tempted to say “great,” try one of these powerful substitutes instead. Enhancing your vocabulary not only improves communication but also leaves a stronger impression on your audience.
Keep exploring new words to keep your expression fresh, engaging, and effective.
