Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective circumstantial differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of circumstantial are detailed, minute, and particular. While all these words mean "dealing with a matter fully and usually point by point," circumstantial implies fullness of detail that fixes something described in time and space.

a circumstantial account of our visit

When could detailed be used to replace circumstantial?

The meanings of detailed and circumstantial largely overlap; however, detailed stresses abundance or completeness of detail.

a detailed analysis of the event

When is minute a more appropriate choice than circumstantial?

In some situations, the words minute and circumstantial are roughly equivalent. However, minute implies close and searching attention to the smallest details.

a minute examination of a fossil

When can particular be used instead of circumstantial?

The synonyms particular and circumstantial are sometimes interchangeable, but particular implies a precise attention to every detail.

a particular description of the scene of the crime

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 circumstantial Lower-maintenance color treatments such as a face-framing highlight or partial highlight are on the lower end of pricing, says Casanova, but pricing can still be circumstantial. Audrey Noble, Vogue, 18 Mar. 2025 His team set out to prove a circumstantial case that the killings were united by a common scheme and plan. Christopher Goffard, Los Angeles Times, 27 Nov. 2024 Those with homicidal tendencies also possess a remarkable inclination to confess all when confronted with evidence so circumstantial it would be laughed out of court. Jon O'Brien, IndieWire, 20 Mar. 2025 Defense lawyers for Amirov and Omarov have told jurors that prosecutors’ evidence was merely circumstantial and there isn't enough proof for a conviction. Stephen Sorace, Fox News, 19 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for circumstantial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for circumstantial
Adjective
  • Diary entries written by Luigi Mangione reveal the now 27-year-old’s detailed thinking before the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson last year, a new court filing shows.
    Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 5 June 2025
  • Create a detailed picture of how my mornings could be different.
    Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
Adjective
  • Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 29 May 2025
  • Advanced segmentation goes even further, using new technologies to conduct more thorough, precise analysis of customers' profiles, behavior and habits—all within a short period of time.
    Nataliya Andreychuk, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025
Adjective
  • The good news Tiller shared with media members Tuesday during an interview session at Bill Self’s basketball camp for youths is he’s been involved in non-contact drills at practice and been given a target date of July 1 for his full return.
    Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 7 June 2025
  • One person performed Gonzo's big number in full cosplay, complete with a flower pot balanced on their head.
    Mackenzie Schmidt, People.com, 7 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Circumstantial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/circumstantial. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on circumstantial

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