NONCHALANT Synonyms: 57 Similar and Opposite Words

nonchalant

adjective

ˌnän-shə-ˈlänt

as in casual

having or showing a lack of interest or concern you shouldn't be so nonchalant about something that is so important to your parents

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of nonchalant are collected, composed, cool, imperturbable, and unruffled. While all these words mean "free from agitation or excitement," nonchalant stresses an easy coolness of manner or casualness that suggests indifference or unconcern.

a nonchalant driver

When could collected be used to replace nonchalant?

The words collected and nonchalant can be used in similar contexts, but collected implies a concentration of mind that eliminates distractions especially in moments of crisis.

the nurse stayed calm and collected

When might composed be a better fit than nonchalant?

While in some cases nearly identical to nonchalant, composed implies freedom from agitation as a result of self-discipline or a sedate disposition.

the composed pianist gave a flawless concert

When is it sensible to use cool instead of nonchalant?

The words cool and nonchalant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, cool may imply calmness, deliberateness, or dispassionateness.

kept a cool head

Where would imperturbable be a reasonable alternative to nonchalant?

The meanings of imperturbable and nonchalant largely overlap; however, imperturbable implies coolness or assurance even under severe provocation.

the speaker remained imperturbable despite the heckling

In what contexts can unruffled take the place of nonchalant?

While the synonyms unruffled and nonchalant are close in meaning, unruffled suggests apparent serenity and poise in the face of setbacks or in the midst of excitement.

harried but unruffled

Examples 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 nonchalant Floridians are accustomed to hurricanes, weary of storms to the point that many are relatively nonchalant about a big storm’s approach. —

Carolyn Kormann, The New Yorker, 10 Oct. 2024 Though the storm ripped through some parts of the state — with at least 11 fatalities confirmed so far — Malinowski remained nonchalant in correspondences with NBC and his followers on social media. —

Sophia Pargas, NBC News, 10 Oct. 2024 But for those seeking bedding with nonchalant elegance, this linen set will have a lot of appeal. —

Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 2 Oct. 2024 The perfect piece for layering to give the ultimate look of nonchalant luxury. —

Rhonda Richford, WWD, 2 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for nonchalant