1
2
3
4

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of rare are choice, dainty, delicate, elegant, and exquisite. While all these words mean "having qualities that appeal to a cultivated taste," rare suggests an uncommon excellence.

rare beauty

In what contexts can choice take the place of rare?

In some situations, the words choice and rare are roughly equivalent. However, choice stresses preeminence in quality or kind.

choice fabric

When is it sensible to use dainty instead of rare?

The meanings of dainty and rare largely overlap; however, dainty sometimes carries an additional suggestion of smallness and of appeal to the eye or palate.

dainty sandwiches

When could delicate be used to replace rare?

Although the words delicate and rare have much in common, delicate implies exquisiteness, subtlety, and fragility.

delicate craftsmanship

When can elegant be used instead of rare?

The words elegant and rare can be used in similar contexts, but elegant applies to what is rich and luxurious but restrained by good taste.

a sumptuous but elegant dining room

When might exquisite be a better fit than rare?

The words exquisite and rare are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, exquisite implies a perfection in workmanship or design that appeals only to very sensitive taste.

an exquisite gold bracelet

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 rare It’s been a bread basket, but special minerals, rare metals? Jim Cramer, CNBC, 10 Mar. 2025 Situated on a rare half-acre-plus lot, this home offers unparalleled privacy and tranquility. Rowan Briggs, The Mercury News, 10 Mar. 2025 Boasting fresh restorations and rare screenings of difficult to get prints, past seasons have been devoted to filmmakers such as Douglas Sirk or studios such as last year’s retrospective, The Lady with the Torch, which celebrated the centenary of Columbia Pictures. John Bleasdale, Variety, 10 Mar. 2025 In modern business, where metrics and bottom lines take center stage, genuine human connection is a rare and undervalued commodity. Tara Fitzpatrick-Navarro, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rare
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rare
Adjective
  • Network security also gets a significant upgrade with the help of AI. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) powered by AI monitor traffic in real time, can flag unusual patterns that might indicate a security breach.
    Kathleen Walch, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025
  • As a result, Canadians have rejected American imports and issued other economic punishments in an unusual show of patriotism.
    Alex Harring, CNBC, 16 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • All exquisite in their different ways, nuanced and unerringly observed.
    Erik Pedersen, Orange County Register, 14 Mar. 2025
  • As guests dine in the iconic setting of Mille Fleurs, they will be treated to an exclusive fashion show by Isola Boutique, featuring the latest in spring fashion, alongside exquisite jewelry designs by John Matty Co.
    Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Problems would only arise when the occasional brazen golfer would stroll into the Burchell’s garden without permission, risking the wrath of a rescue dog wary of strangers.
    Jack Bantock, CNN, 12 Mar. 2025
  • Cheers erupted from the crowd with stomps of approval for some of the speakers, while occasional boos were heard at the mention of DOGE or other actions taken by Trump.
    Kiersten Hacker, Baltimore Sun, 12 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Tornadoes were not uncommon at the time, as Missouri is often considered part of an area of the U.S. nicknamed Tornado Alley.
    Alex Gurley, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025
  • But, while the results might have given internet viewers a shock, these types of ultrasound pictures aren't uncommon.
    David Faris, Newsweek, 17 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion builds on that work with new vigor and a new dimension - the creative energy and conquering spirit of one extraordinary woman.
    Tom Teicholz, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025
  • But the body itself has an extraordinary ability to heal.
    Tiziana Cardini, Vogue, 11 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • To Chanel, Naomi Campbell donned an elegant lilac ensemble by the house.
    Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 14 Mar. 2025
  • Amazon Essentials Pleated-Shoulder Crewneck Sweater This crewneck sweater gets an elegant update with pleated details at the shoulders.
    Jamie Allison Sanders, People.com, 14 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • What happened was that all of this comedy spoken in Kansai-ben was understood nationwide as being funny.
    Ollie Barder, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025
  • Everyone thought this was very funny, including, to her credit, Kate.
    Stephanie Nolasco, Fox News, 21 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Less Than 1% Of Brackets Remain Perfect On First Day Of Tournament Don't Overlook Humility Technical skills and strategic thinking are vital, but humility is one of the most defining traits of exceptional leaders.
    Julian Hayes II, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025
  • When William finally appears in person late in the game, the faceoff between him and Eddie is worth the wait if only just to see these two exceptional actors go at it.
    Pete Hammond, Deadline, 20 Mar. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rare.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rare. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on rare

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!