deliberate 1 of 2

1
2

deliberate

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word deliberate different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of deliberate are intentional, voluntary, and willing. While all these words mean "done or brought about of one's own will," deliberate implies full consciousness of the nature of one's act and its consequences.

deliberate acts of sabotage

When is intentional a more appropriate choice than deliberate?

The meanings of intentional and deliberate largely overlap; however, intentional stresses an awareness of an end to be achieved.

the intentional concealment of vital information

When is it sensible to use voluntary instead of deliberate?

In some situations, the words voluntary and deliberate are roughly equivalent. However, voluntary implies freedom and spontaneity of choice or action without external compulsion.

a voluntary confession

Where would willing be a reasonable alternative to deliberate?

While the synonyms willing and deliberate are close in meaning, willing implies a readiness and eagerness to accede to or anticipate the wishes of another.

willing obedience

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 deliberate
Adjective
Without any deliberate policy, or quota on our side, our hearts and our choices led us naturally towards a very powerful and strong cinema carried by women. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 14 Apr. 2025 This deliberate approach helps keep you focused on your long-term objectives rather than constantly adjusting to the complexities of multiple strategies. Bruce Helmer and Peg Webb, Twin Cities, 12 Apr. 2025
Verb
In the first trial, the jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict after deliberating for five days and the judge declared a mistrial. Tim Stelloh, NBC news, 21 Mar. 2025 In that sense, the delay may be part of a strategy to put the EU’s best foot forward as tariff rates are being deliberated in Washington. Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deliberate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deliberate
Adjective
  • Read more Dua and Callum’s Couple Style Is, Like Them, Hot Turner’s low-key but considered looks are the perfect backdrop to his girlfriend’s more mercurial wardrobe.
    Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 27 Dec. 2024
  • Working from Jeff Nathanson’s screenplay, Jenkins tries to allay a clunky narrative with his intimate and considered style.
    Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • First responders arrived at the scene around 10:03 a.m. to find Joseph conscious and alert, the sheriff's office said.
    Doc Louallen, ABC News, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Diplomatic and socially conscious, Mitchell chooses to keep the peace in his relationships, especially seeing both sides of an argument, just like Libra.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 8 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • While contemplating his former love and his future as a father, Massey conjures up the apparition of his beloved Catherine.
    Claire Franken, TVLine, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Boasberg has been contemplating whether to hold any administration officials in contempt of court for ignoring his orders last month to turn around planes that were carrying the deportees to El Salvador.
    Alanna Durkin Richer, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Instead, proactively seek to innovate, explore new areas, and take calculated risks.
    Cicely Simpson, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • It’s also helped that the rest of the blue line has had more freedom to take calculated risks and join plays on offence, which has allowed the club to generate scoring chances at a healthy rate recently.
    Harman Dayal, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The 49ers’ voluntary offseason program got underway Tuesday, while the trio named above awaits contract extensions befitting their status as underpaid leaders on a franchise in flux.
    Cam Inman, Mercury News, 22 Apr. 2025
  • The Washington Post reports that the Office of Personnel Management basically told HR officials across the government that the emails are voluntary and that the agency didn't plan to do anything with the emails that were submitted.
    Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 22 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Once the news of her pending nuptials to ex-professional snowboarder Shaun White hit, inquiring minds were quick to ponder what her bridal beauty prep and wedding makeup looks might entail.
    Jessica Ourisman, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Exploring themes of empty consumerism, social isolation, and toxic masculinity before that phrase entered the cultural lexicon, American Psycho gives the audience a lot to ponder in addition to operating as an entertaining horror film.
    Johnny Loftus, EW.com, 14 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • These new regulations are meant to reduce the chances of intentional or unintentional targeting of white sharks, which not only harms the animals but also increases public safety risks.
    Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
  • This is often not intentional fraud but is due to the handler not understanding the difference between an ESA and a service dog.
    R. Eric Thomas, Denver Post, 13 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Before the second tribal council, players in David's group debated between either voting out Cedrek McFadden or Shauhin Davari.
    Emily DeLetter, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025
  • The origins of the pandemic have been hotly debated since its start.
    Youri Benadjaoud, ABC News, 18 Apr. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Deliberate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deliberate. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on deliberate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!