1
as in versatile
able to do many different kinds of things
a universal wrench
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in general
belonging or relating to the whole
mankind's universal need for affection
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in comprehensive
covering everything or all important points
the genius of Leonardo da Vinci was universal: he was an artist, an architect, an engineer, and a scientist, among other things
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in ubiquitous
present in all places and at all times
after the home team won the national championship, throughout the city a sense of pride was as universal as the air
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of universal
Misogyny is universal, of course, but its expression is culturally specific.
—
Namwali Serpell, The New Yorker, 25 Mar. 2025
The Trump administration has already levied universal 20% tariffs on imports from China as an effort to crack down on the illicit trade in fentanyl, but another 25% import tax on top of that could further escalate tensions between the world's two largest economies.
—arkansasonline.com, 25 Mar. 2025
Talenti is leaning into this universal truth with their new Bakery Collection inspired by our favorite tiered treats.
—Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Mar. 2025
Strickler explained that these panels are conservative about adopting change, but that the whole country is now moving in the direction of universal DPYD testing.
—Ellen Matloff, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for universal
Namwali Serpell, The New Yorker, 25 Mar. 2025
The Trump administration has already levied universal 20% tariffs on imports from China as an effort to crack down on the illicit trade in fentanyl, but another 25% import tax on top of that could further escalate tensions between the world's two largest economies.
—arkansasonline.com, 25 Mar. 2025
Talenti is leaning into this universal truth with their new Bakery Collection inspired by our favorite tiered treats.
—Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Mar. 2025
Strickler explained that these panels are conservative about adopting change, but that the whole country is now moving in the direction of universal DPYD testing.
—Ellen Matloff, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for universal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for universal
Adjective
-
Metallics—especially gold and silver—are easy to wear like neutrals, making this pair of heels a versatile addition to your shoe wardrobe.—
Nina Derwin,
Glamour,
17 Apr. 2025
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The versatile spray is also designed to help with redness, itching, cuts, and minor burns.—
Maggie Horton,
People.com,
16 Apr. 2025
Adjective
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Primaries not needed Spanberger and Earle-Sears can both skip competing in a primary and will instead head straight into the general face-off.—
Savannah Kuchar,
USA Today,
21 Apr. 2025
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This year is a defining one for Verbeek, who became a first-time NHL general manager in February 2022 after being an acolyte to Steve Yzerman in Tampa Bay and Detroit.—
Eric Stephens,
New York Times,
20 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
In a comprehensive, step-by-step Reddit guide published on r/DHGate, user FabulousNinja8399 shares that this medal signals a seller has achieved the highest grade a store can receive: ACE status.—
Francesca Krempa,
StyleCaster,
10 Apr. 2025
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The industry event expects approximately 200 participants from Europe, Asia, Canada, and Latin America, offering a comprehensive program of lectures, case studies, labs, one-on-one meetings, and networking events.—
Naman Ramachandran,
Variety,
9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
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This development mirrors the revolutionary vision of personal computing, suggesting a future where AI agents could become as ubiquitous as desktop computers. 2.—
Gaurav Pathak,
Forbes.com,
18 Apr. 2025
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And although offal may never become as ubiquitous as muscle meat in American diets, more people eating organ meats could come with some positives.—
Valerie Trapp,
The Atlantic,
17 Apr. 2025
Adjective
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Research shows that people who are more curious often feel more fulfilled and adaptable.—
Dr. Diane Hamilton,
Forbes.com,
14 Apr. 2025
-
Why is a new No 10 important for Amorim? Analysis from Laurie Whitwell Cunha’s familiarity with that position behind the striker in a 3-4-2-1 formation enhances his appeal for United, who want adaptable players but also need new signings to hit the ground running.—
Laurie Whitwell,
New York Times,
11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
Seen through the narrator’s eyes, the fast-food restaurant’s employees lose their generic anonymity and gain a sense of individuality.—
Rhian Sasseen,
The Atlantic,
17 Apr. 2025
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The class action lawsuit alleges that Walgreens sold generic drugs at a higher cost to customers with insurance than to members of its Prescription Savings Club, according to court documents.—
Jeremy Tanner,
The Hill,
16 Apr. 2025
Adjective
-
The Top of the Standard (known colloquially as the Boom Boom Room) instantly commands your attention with the bar’s gilded centerpiece, reminiscent of a trumpet flute, and its floor-to-ceiling windows that provide incredible panoramic views of New York City and the Hudson River.—
Christina Liao,
Vogue,
19 Apr. 2025
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Recommended: the glorious, scenic route of Hwy 82 with its panoramic views of mountains and wildlife.—
Josh Max,
Forbes.com,
18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
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These efforts have triggered a series of legal challenges and widespread public backlash.—
Thomas G. Moukawsher,
MSNBC Newsweek,
14 Apr. 2025
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The set continued for three more songs, but ended on a note of some confusion and widespread grumbling from the audience.—
Jem Aswad,
Variety,
14 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Universal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/universal. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.
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