CASUAL Synonyms: 212 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'casual' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of casual are accidental , contingent , and fortuitous . While all these words mean "not amenable to planning or prediction," casual stresses lack of real or apparent premeditation or intent. // a casual encounter with a stranger

Q: When might 'accidental' be a better fit than 'casual'?

The synonyms accidental and casual are sometimes interchangeable, but accidental stresses chance. // any resemblance to actual persons is entirely accidental

Q: In what contexts can 'contingent' take the place of 'casual'?

While in some cases nearly identical to casual , contingent suggests possibility of happening but stresses uncertainty and dependence on other future events for existence or occurrence. // the contingent effects of the proposed law

Q: When is it sensible to use 'fortuitous' instead of 'casual'?

Although the words fortuitous and casual have much in common, fortuitous so strongly suggests chance that it often connotes entire absence of cause. // a series of fortuitous events

casual

adjective

ˈkazh-wəl

Definition of casual

as in informal

not designed to be worn only on special occasions a restaurant where people in casual clothes are always welcome

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in accidental

happening by chance a casual meeting with the next-door neighbors on a beach in Hawaii

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in nonchalant

having or showing a lack of interest or concern only a casual examination of the bicycle before buying it

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in sporadic

lacking in steadiness or regularity of occurrence a casual attendance at their son's hockey games

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective casual differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of casual are accidental, contingent, and fortuitous. While all these words mean "not amenable to planning or prediction," casual stresses lack of real or apparent premeditation or intent.

a casual encounter with a stranger

When might accidental be a better fit than casual?

The synonyms accidental and casual are sometimes interchangeable, but accidental stresses chance.

any resemblance to actual persons is entirely accidental

In what contexts can contingent take the place of casual?

While in some cases nearly identical to casual, contingent suggests possibility of happening but stresses uncertainty and dependence on other future events for existence or occurrence.

the contingent effects of the proposed law

When is it sensible to use fortuitous instead of casual?

Although the words fortuitous and casual have much in common, fortuitous so strongly suggests chance that it often connotes entire absence of cause.

a series of fortuitous events

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 casual The service In true Auberge fashion, Bowie House continues to offer service that is low key and casual but still accommodating of all needs. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 July 2026 Plus, the simple silhouette easily transitions from daytime adventures to casual dinners. — Aashna Gheewalla, PEOPLE, 5 July 2026 But this tablet isn't just for creatives; with 256GB of storage and ample RAM, professionals and casual users alike can multitask up a storm. — Kelsey Fogarty, PC Magazine, 4 July 2026 From the gratifying casual exchanges being experienced by anyone going to Fan Fest, getting on the KC Streetcar, happening upon visitors in restaurants or attending satellite festivities. — Vahe Gregorian july 4, Kansas City Star, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for casual

Recent Examples of Synonyms for casual

Adjective

Authorities are also investigating the death of a Malawian man after he was allegedly killed by a mob at an informal settlement in the city of Pietermaritzburg, near Durban.

— Nimi Princewill, CNN Money, 29 June 2026
It is joined by an adjoining family room and informal dining area.

— Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 29 June 2026

Definition of informal

Adjective

That play effectively started once defender Tim Ream tracked down a goal kick near the half-line, then passed up to Tyler Adams for a nonchalant back-heel pass to Tillman.

— Cam Inman, Mercury News, 2 July 2026
Chisholm is normally pretty nonchalant, and manager Aaron Boone is rather stoic and defends his players sometimes to a fault.

— Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026

Definition of nonchalant

Adjective

The only other competitors were the Anglo-French Concorde and the sporadic Soviet Tupolev Tu-144 program.

— David Szondy July 02, New Atlas, 2 July 2026
Redevelopment in downtown Miami and the accidental discovery of the mysterious Miami Circle in 1998 have ushered in a quarter-century of sporadic but remarkable archaeological revelations.

— Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 30 June 2026

Definition of sporadic

Adjective

In recent seasons, the Phillies have routinely searched for outfield reinforcements without any newcomer really seizing a long-term everyday opportunity.

— Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026
So the temples were at the heart of the everyday life of old India.

— Chandrahas Choudhury, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026

Definition of everyday

Adjective

Luke Russert joined his father for major political conventions and occasional shows on the road, Fischer Martin said.

— Jay Stahl, USA Today, 1 July 2026
This frequent, high-profile casting strategy, distinct from occasional star cameos, transforms 'Oh, Mary' into a dynamic, high-demand theatrical experience.

— Katie North, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

Definition of occasional

Adjective

Earthquakes' sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches.

— CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 4 July 2026
Small Holes One sign of snakes in your garden could be the sudden appearance of small holes that could be about the size of a small coin, or up to two inches.

— Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 3 July 2026

Definition of sudden

Adjective

Expanding its use displaces coal in Asia and supports the integration of intermittent renewables by providing flexible backup.

— David Blackmon, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Research has shown, for example, that intermittent fasting may be as effective as low-calorie diets for weight loss.

— Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 29 June 2026

Definition of intermittent

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cast (up)

casual

casually

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“Casual.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/casual. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of casual

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