Another Word for OVERALL: List of 28 Useful Synonym for Overall with Examples

synonyms for overall in an essay

Overall Synonym! What is another word for overall? A useful list of 13 synonyms for overall with useful example sentences and ESL pictures. Learning these overall synonyms will surely help you broaden your vocabulary words and improve your writing skill in English.

Overall Synonym

List of synonyms for overall.

“Overall is a conclusion transition word . Learn a useful list of synonyms for overall in English.

  • All things considered
  • By and large
  • Collectedly
  • Collectively
  • For the most part
  • Generally speaking
  • In the main
  • Inclusively
  • On the whole
  • Principally
  • Substantially
  • Taking everything into consideration
  • To a great degree
  • To a large extent

Another Word for Overall | Infographic

Another Word for OVERALL: List of 28 Useful Synonym for Overall with Examples

Another Word for Overall

Another word for overall with examples.

Learn another word for overall with example sentences.

Sometimes she is grouchy, but  all in all , she is an excellent teacher.

I mean, nuns have to drink somewhere.  All things considered , I reckoned two out of three wasn’t bad.

So,  all told , roughly three-quarters or more of recent cash buyers had a clear preference for cash.

Altogether , it was a delightful town garden, peaceful and secluded.

Any architect knows that,  as a rule , old buildings are more soundly built than new ones.

Despite her criticisms, she is basically  very fond of you.

But the truth was that,  by and large , the research university focuses its collective intelligence on other matters.

He joined the consular service,  chiefly  because this was one of the few job vacancies.

It is a powerful theoretical basis to development opposite roller spinning and selects the technological parameter collectedly .

The law gives workers the right to organize and bargain  collectively .

Here and there the stuffing bulged, but  for the most part,  it was in reasonable shape.

The catfish deposits its eggs in shallow water,  generally  dose to roots or close to reeds.

Generally speaking , the more expensive the stereo, the better it is.

In general , it was the better-educated voters who voted Yes in the referendum .

In the main , the money raised goes to children’s charities.

Inclusively , the tone of the book is satirical/the book is satirical in tone.

The talks have foundered, largely  because of the reluctance of some members of the government to do a deal with criminals.

The stock-market scandal is refusing to go away,  mainly  because there’s still no consensus over how it should be dealt with.

Mostly , they fight about paying bills.

On average , people who don’t smoke are healthier than people who do.

I would say that,  on balance , it hasn’t been a bad year.

Those in business are not,  on the whole , conversant with basic scientific principles.

Primarily , however, her antics seem playful, befitting a king who ascended the throne at age 10.

No new power stations have been built,  principally  because of the cost.

Newspaper accounts and official reports from both sides correlated  substantially .

Taking everything into consideration , the event was a great success.

To a large degree, luck and serendipity made us the kind of scientists we are and brought us together.

To a large extent , success in this area has reflected knowledge gained from nature.

Another Word for Overall with Examples | Infographic

Another Word for OVERALL: List of 28 Useful Synonym for Overall with Examples

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synonyms for overall in an essay

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39 Different Ways to Say ‘In Conclusion’ in an Essay (Rated)

39 Different Ways to Say ‘In Conclusion’ in an Essay (Rated)

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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essay conclusion examples and definition, explained below

The phrase “In conclusion …” sounds reductive, simple and … well, just basic.

You can find better words to conclude an essay than that!

So below I’ve outlined a list of different ways to say in conclusion in an essay using a range of analysis verbs . Each one comes with an explanation of the best time to use each phrase and an example you could consider.

Read Also: How to Write a Conclusion using the 5C’s Method

List of Ways to Say ‘In Conclusion’ in an Essay

The following are the best tips I have for to say in conclusion in an essay.

1. The Weight of the Evidence Suggests…

My Rating: 10/10

Overview: This is a good concluding phrase for an evaluative essay where you need to compare two different positions on a topic then conclude by saying which one has more evidence behind it than the other.

You could also use this phrase for argumentative essays where you’ve put forward all the evidence for your particular case.

Example: “The weight of the evidence suggests that climate change is a real phenomenon.”

2. A Thoughtful Analysis would Conclude…

My Rating: 9/10

Overview: I would use this phrase in either an argumentative essay or a comparison essay. As an argument, it highlights that you think your position is the most logical.

In a comparison essay, it shows that you have (or have intended to) thoughtfully explore the issue by looking at both sides.

Example: “A thoughtful analysis would conclude that there is substantial evidence highlighting that climate change is real.”

Related Article: 17+ Great Ideas For An Essay About Yourself

3. A Balanced Assessment of the Above Information…

Overview: This phrase can be used to show that you have made a thoughtful analysis of the information you found when researching the essay. You’re telling your teacher with this phrase that you have looked at all sides of the argument before coming to your conclusion.

Example: “A balanced assessment of the above information would be that climate change exists and will have a strong impact on the world for centuries to come.”

4. Across the Board…

My Rating: 5/10

Overview: I would use this phrase in a less formal context such as in a creative discussion but would leave it out of a formal third-person essay. To me, the phrase comes across as too colloquial.

Example: “Across the board, there are scientists around the world who consistently provide evidence for human-induced climate change.”

5. Logically…

My Rating: 7/10

Overview: This phrase can be used at the beginning of any paragraph that states out a series of facts that will be backed by clear step-by-step explanations that the reader should be able to follow to a conclusion.

Example: “Logically, the rise of the automobile would speed up economic expansion in the United States. Automobiles allowed goods to flow faster around the economy.

6. After all is Said and Done…

Overview: This is a colloquial term that is more useful in a speech than written text. If you feel that the phrase ‘In conclusion,’ is too basic, then I’d also avoid this term. However, use in speech is common, so if you’re giving a speech, it may be more acceptable.

Example: “After all is said and done, it’s clear that there is more evidence to suggest that climate change is real than a hoax.”

7. All in All…

Overview: ‘All in all’ is a colloquial term that I would use in speech but not in formal academic writing. Colloquialisms can show that you have poor command of the English language. However, I would consider using this phrase in the conclusion of a debate.

Example: “All in all, our debate team has shown that there is insurmountable evidence that our side of the argument is correct.”

8. All Things Considered…

My Rating: 6/10

Overview: This term is a good way of saying ‘I have considered everything above and now my conclusion is..’ However, it is another term that’s more commonly used in speech than writing. Use it in a high school debate, but when it comes to a formal essay, I would leave it out.

Example: “All things considered, there’s no doubt in my mind that climate change is man-made.”

9. As a Final Note…

My Rating: 3/10

Overview: This phrase gives me the impression that the student doesn’t understand the point of a conclusion. It’s not to simply make a ‘final note’, but to summarize and reiterate. So, I would personally avoid this one.

Example: “As a final note, I would say that I do think the automobile was one of the greatest inventions of the 20 th Century.”

10. As Already Stated…

My Rating: 2/10

Overview: I don’t like this phrase. It gives teachers the impression that you’re going around in circles and haven’t organized your essay properly. I would particularly avoid it in the body of an essay because I always think: “If you already stated it, why are you stating it again?” Of course, the conclusion does re-state things, but it also adds value because it also summarizes them. So, add value by using a phrase such as ‘summarizing’ or ‘weighing up’ in your conclusion instead.

Example: “As already stated, I’m going to repeat myself and annoy my teacher.”

11. At present, the Best Evidence Suggests…

My Rating: 8/10

Overview: In essays where the evidence may change in the future. Most fields of study do involve some evolution over time, so this phrase acknowledges that “right now” the best evidence is one thing, but it may change in the future. It also shows that you’ve looked at the latest information on the topic.

Example: “At present, the best evidence suggests that carbon dioxide emissions from power plants is the greatest influence on climate change.”

12. At the Core of the Issue…

Overview: I personally find this phrase to be useful for most essays. It highlights that you are able to identify the most important or central point from everything you have examined. It is slightly less formal than some other phrases on this list, but I also wouldn’t consider it too colloquial for an undergraduate essay.

Example: “At the core of the issue in this essay is the fact scientists have been unable to convince the broader public of the importance of action on climate change.”

13. Despite the shortcomings of…

Overview: This phrase can be useful in an argumentative essay. It shows that there are some limitations to your argument, but , on balance you still think your position is the best. This will allow you to show critical insight and knowledge while coming to your conclusion.

Often, my students make the mistake of thinking they can only take one side in an argumentative essay. On the contrary, you should be able to highlight the limitations of your point-of-view while also stating that it’s the best.

Example: “Despite the shortcomings of globalization, this essay has found that on balance it has been good for many areas in both the developed and developing world.”

14. Finally…

My Rating: 4/10

Overview: While the phrase ‘Finally,’ does indicate that you’re coming to the end of your discussion, it is usually used at the end of a list of ideas rather than in a conclusion. It also implies that you’re adding a point rather that summing up previous points you have made.

Example: “Finally, this essay has highlighted the importance of communication between policy makers and practitioners in order to ensure good policy is put into effect.”

15. Gathering the above points together…

Overview: While this is not a phrase I personally use very often, I do believe it has the effect of indicating that you are “summing up”, which is what you want out of a conclusion.

Example: “Gathering the above points together, it is clear that the weight of evidence highlights the importance of action on climate change.”

16. Given the above information…

Overview: This phrase shows that you are considering the information in the body of the piece when coming to your conclusion. Therefore, I believe it is appropriate for starting a conclusion.

Example: “Given the above information, it is reasonable to conclude that the World Health Organization is an appropriate vehicle for achieving improved health outcomes in the developing world.”

17. In a nutshell…

Overview: This phrase means to say everything in the fewest possible words. However, it is a colloquial phrase that is best used in speech rather than formal academic writing.

Example: “In a nutshell, there are valid arguments on both sides of the debate about socialism vs capitalism.”

18. In closing…

Overview: This phrase is an appropriate synonym for ‘In conclusion’ and I would be perfectly fine with a student using this phrase in their essay. Make sure you follow-up by explaining your position based upon the weight of evidence presented in the body of your piece

Example: “In closing, there is ample evidence to suggest that liberalism has been the greatest force for progress in the past 100 years.”

19. In essence…

Overview: While the phrase ‘In essence’ does suggest you are about to sum up the core findings of your discussion, it is somewhat colloquial and is best left for speech rather than formal academic writing.

Example: “In essence, this essay has shown that cattle farming is an industry that should be protected as an essential service for our country.”

20. In review…

Overview: We usually review someone else’s work, not our own. For example, you could review a book that you read or a film you watched. So, writing “In review” as a replacement for “In conclusion” comes across a little awkward.

Example: “In review, the above information has made a compelling case for compulsory military service in the United States.”

21. In short…

Overview: Personally, I find that this phrase is used more regularly by undergraduate student. As students get more confident with their writing, they tend to use higher-rated phrases from this list. Nevertheless, I would not take grades away from a student for using this phrase.

Example: “In short, this essay has shown the importance of sustainable agriculture for securing a healthy future for our nation.”

22. In Sum…

Overview: Short for “In summary”, the phrase “In sum” sufficiently shows that you are not coming to the moment where you will sum up the essay. It is an appropriate phrase to use instead of “In conclusion”.

But remember to not just summarize but also discuss the implications of your findings in your conclusion.

Example: “In sum, this essay has shown the importance of managers in ensuring efficient operation of medium-to-large enterprises.”

23. In Summary…

Overview: In summary and in sum are the same terms which can be supplemented for “In conclusion”. You will show that you are about to summarize the points you said in the body of the essay, which is what you want from an essay.

Example: “In summary, reflection is a very important metacognitive skill that all teachers need to master in order to improve their pedagogical skills.”

24. It cannot be conclusively stated that…

Overview: While this phrase is not always be a good fit for your essay, when it is, it does show knowledge and skill in writing. You would use this phrase if you are writing an expository essay where you have decided that there is not enough evidence currently to make a firm conclusion on the issue.

Example: “It cannot be conclusively stated that the Big Bang was when the universe began. However, it is the best theory so far, and none of the other theories explored in this essay have as much evidence behind them.”

25. It is apparent that…

Overview: The term ‘ apparent ’ means that something is ‘clear’ or even ‘obvious’. So, you would use this word in an argumentative essay where you think you have put forward a very compelling argument.

Example: “It is apparent that current migration patterns in the Americas are unsustainable and causing significant harm to the most vulnerable people in our society.”

26. Last but not least…

Overview: The phrase “last but not least” is a colloquial idiom that is best used in speech rather than formal academic writing. Furthermore, when you are saying ‘last’, you mean to say you’re making your last point rather than summing up all your points you already made. So, I’d avoid this one.

Example: “Last but not least, this essay has highlighted the importance of empowering patients to exercise choice over their own medical decisions.”

27. Overall…

My Rating: 7.5/10

Overview: This phrase means ‘taking everything into account’, which sounds a lot like what you would want to do in an essay. I don’t consider it to be a top-tier choice (which is why I rated it 7), but in my opinion it is perfectly acceptable to use in an undergraduate essay.

Example: “Overall, religious liberty continues to be threatened across the world, and faces significant threats in the 21 st Century.”

28. The above points illustrate…

Overview: This phrase is a good start to a conclusion paragraph that talks about the implications of the points you made in your essay. Follow it up with a statement that defends your thesis you are putting forward in the essay.

Example: “The above points illustrate that art has had an overwhelmingly positive impact on humanity since the renaissance.”

29. The evidence presented in this essay suggests that…

Overview: I like this phrase because it highlights that you are about to gather together the evidence from the body of the essay to put forward a final thesis statement .

Example: “The evidence presented in this essay suggests that the democratic system of government is the best for securing maximum individual liberty for citizens of a nation.”

30. This essay began by stating…

Overview: This phrase is one that I teach in my YouTube mini-course as an effective one to use in an essay conclusion. If you presented an interesting fact in your introduction , you can return to that point from the beginning of the essay to provide nice symmetry in your writing.

Example: “This essay began by stating that corruption has been growing in the Western world. However, the facts collected in the body of the essay show that institutional checks and balances can sufficiently minimize this corruption in the long-term.”

31. This essay has argued…

Overview: This term can be used effectively in an argumentative essay to provide a summary of your key points. Follow it up with an outline of all your key points, and then a sentence about the implications of the points you made. See the example below.

Example: “This essay has argued that standardized tests are damaging for students’ mental health. Tests like the SATs should therefore be replaced by project-based testing in schools.”

32. To close…

Overview: This is a very literal way of saying “In conclusion”. While it’s suitable and serves its purpose, it does come across as being a sophomoric term. Consider using one of the higher-rated phrases in this list.

Example: “To close, this essay has highlighted both the pros and cons of relational dialectics theory and argued that it is not the best communication theory for the 21 st Century.”

33. To Conclude…

Overview: Like ‘to close’ and ‘in summary’, the phrase ‘to conclude’ is very similar to ‘in conclusion’. It can therefore be used as a sufficient replacement for that term. However, as with the above terms, it’s just okay and you could probably find a better phrase to use.

Example: “To conclude, this essay has highlighted that there are multiple models of communication but there is no one perfect theory to explain each situation.”

34. To make a long story short…

My Rating: 1/10

Overview: This is not a good phrase to use in an academic essay. It is a colloquialism. It also implies that you have been rambling in your writing and you could have said everything more efficiently. I would personally not use this phrase.

Example: “To make a long story short, I don’t have very good command of academic language.”

35. To Sum up…

Overview: This phrase is the same as ‘In summary’. It shows that you have made all of your points and now you’re about to bring them all together in a ‘summary’. Just remember in your conclusion that you need to do more than summarize but also talk about the implications of your findings. So you’ll need to go beyond just a summary.

Example: “In summary, there is ample evidence that linear models of communication like Lasswell’s model are not as good at explaining 21 st Century communication as circular models like the Osgood-Schramm model .”

36. Ultimately…

Overview: While this phrase does say that you are coming to a final point – also known as a conclusion – it’s also a very strong statement that might not be best to use in all situations. I usually accept this phrase from my undergraduates, but for my postgraduates I’d probably suggest simply removing it.

Example: “Ultimately, new media has been bad for the world because it has led to the spread of mistruths around the internet.”

37. Undoubtedly…

Overview: If you are using it in a debate or argumentative essay, it can be helpful. However, in a regular academic essay, I would avoid it. We call this a ‘booster’, which is a term that emphasizes certainty. Unfortunately, certainty is a difficult thing to claim, so you’re better off ‘hedging’ with phrases like ‘It appears’ or ‘The best evidence suggests’.

Example: “Undoubtedly, I know everything about this topic and am one hundred percent certain even though I’m just an undergraduate student.”

38. Weighing up the facts, this essay finds…

Overview: This statement highlights that you are looking at all of the facts both for and against your points of view. It shows you’re not just blindly following one argument but being careful about seeing things from many perspectives.

Example: “Weighing up the facts, this essay finds that reading books is important for developing critical thinking skills in childhood.”

39. With that said…

Overview: This is another phrase that I would avoid. This is a colloquialism that’s best used in speech rather than writing. It is another term that feels sophomoric and is best to avoid. Instead, use a more formal term such as: ‘Weighing up the above points, this essay finds…’

Example: “With that said, this essay disagrees with the statement that you need to go to college to get a good job.”

Do you Need to Say Anything?

Something I often tell my students is: “Can you just remove that phrase?”

Consider this sentence:

  • “In conclusion, the majority of scientists concur that climate change exists.”

Would it be possible to simply say:

  • “ In conclusion, The majority of scientists concur that climate change exists.”

So, I’d recommend also just considering removing that phrase altogether! Sometimes the best writing is the shortest, simplest writing that gets to the point without any redundant language at all.

How to Write an Effective Conclusion

Before I go, I’d like to bring your attention to my video on ‘how to write an effective conclusion’. I think it would really help you out given that you’re looking for help on how to write a conclusion. It’s under 5 minutes long and has helped literally thousands of students write better conclusions for their essays:

You can also check out these conclusion examples for some copy-and-paste conclusions for your own essay.

In Conclusion…

Well, I had to begin this conclusion with ‘In conclusion…’ I liked the irony in it, and I couldn’t pass up that chance.

Overall, don’t forget that concluding an essay is a way to powerfully summarize what you’ve had to say and leave the reader with a strong impression that you’ve become an authority on the topic you’re researching. 

So, whether you write it as a conclusion, summary, or any other synonym for conclusion, those other ways to say in conclusion are less important than making sure that the message in your conclusion is incredibly strong.

Chris

  • Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
  • Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 20 Montessori Toddler Bedrooms (Design Inspiration)
  • Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 21 Montessori Homeschool Setups
  • Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 101 Hidden Talents Examples

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99+ Synonyms for “Overall” with Examples | Another Word for “Overall”

Exploring synonyms for “overall” is not just an academic exercise but a practical tool that serves us in articulating complex ideas succinctly. Whether we’re drafting reports, conveying long-term strategies, or simply trying to capture the collective essence of various elements, employing the right synonym can make our expressions clearer and more effective.

Overall Synonyms

Another Word for Overall | 85+ Synonyms for "Overall" with Useful Examples

What Is “Overall”?

“Overall” is an adjective we often use to describe something that takes everything into account or covers all aspects. When we speak of the “overall effect” or the “overall results,” we’re considering the total, not just the individual parts.

List of Synonyms for Overall

  • On the whole
  • By and large
  • Predominantly
  • Principally
  • For the most part
  • Universally
  • Almost always
  • In the main
  • All things considered
  • In the aggregate
  • Collectively
  • Essentially
  • Fundamentally
  • Customarily
  • As a general rule
  • In the mass
  • In the larger view
  • Taking everything into account
  • Taking everything into consideration
  • To summarize
  • Comprehensively
  • Holistically
  • Across the board
  • In totality
  • Inclusively
  • Overall speaking
  • Considering everything
  • When all is said and done
  • In the grand scheme of things
  • When you consider everything
  • In broad terms
  • In a broad sense
  • In a general sense
  • Across-the-board
  • Without exception
  • Conclusively
  • Panoramically
  • Overarchingly
  • Encompassingly
  • All-encompassingly
  • In a comprehensive manner
  • Broad-brush
  • In the round
  • From a bird’s-eye view
  • In a global sense
  • In the long run
  • In the fullness of time
  • In a macro sense
  • From the top
  • Over the long haul
  • In the big picture
  • From a distance
  • In the context of everything
  • All-embracingly
  • System-wide
  • From an overall perspective
  • In the scheme of things
  • In every respect
  • In every way
  • In all respects
  • In all areas
  • All-inclusively
  • Across the spectrum
  • From a holistic standpoint
  • In the total view
  • In a blanket manner
  • In the complete sense
  • In a full-scale manner
  • In an umbrella fashion
  • On a grand scale
  • In the widest sense
  • In a wide-angle view
  • From a comprehensive standpoint
  • In a panoramic scope
  • On a broad scale

Types of Synonyms for Overall

Comprehensive synonyms.

  • Total:  Implies that nothing has been left out.
  • Complete:  Everything that is needed or required is present.
  • Inclusive:  All parts or elements are included.

Scope-Oriented Synonyms

  • Universal:  Applies to all cases or situations without exception.
  • Widespread:  Something that is spread out or affecting a large area or number of people.
  • Extensive:  Covering a large area or a vast subject matter.

General Synonyms

  • Generic:  Characteristic of or relating to a class or group.
  • Common:  Ordinary and seen or encountered frequently.

Common Synonyms for Overall

Overall vs. in general.

“ In general ” suggests a broad, non-specific trend or opinion, whereas “ overall ” implies a summary or collective assessment of all factors.

  • In general , the weather this month has been pleasant.
  • Overall , the project was a success, accounting for a few minor setbacks.

Overall vs. All in all

While “ all in all ” serves as a summative phrase similar to “ overall ,” it often introduces a final judgment or conclusion.

  • All in all , the event was well-received despite the initial challenges.
  • Our overall experience at the hotel was delightful, with exceptional service and comfort.

Overall vs. In summary

“ In summary ” is typically used to introduce a condensed version of previously mentioned details, while “ overall ” conveys a general conclusion.

  • In summary , the report outlines the need for further research.
  • The movie had its moments of brilliance, but overall , it failed to captivate the audience.

Overall vs. Mostly

“ Mostly ” focuses on the largest portion but acknowledges that there are exceptions, contrasting with “ overall ,” which refers to the totality of something.

  • The audience was mostly teens and young adults.
  • The feedback on our new product has been overwhelmingly positive overall .

“Overall” Synonyms in Thesis and Dissertation Writing

In academic writing, particularly in theses and dissertations, we strive for clarity and precision in our language. The word “overall” is often overused and can reduce the formality of our scholarly work. Consequently, it becomes imperative to seek alternative expressions that convey comprehensiveness or totality without detracting from the academic tone.

Here are suitable synonyms for “overall” we might consider:

  • In general  – Utilized to discuss the broad scope of a subject.
  • As a whole  – When referring to the entirety of the research or topic.
  • Comprehensively  – To indicate that the text addresses all aspects completely.
  • Collectively  – Suggesting a conclusion or viewpoint from the aggregation of data.
  • Encompassing  – To denote that the research covers various aspects and points.

Usage in context:

  • “As a whole, the findings of this study suggest that…”
  • “Our research comprehensively examines the variables related to…”
  • “In general, the literature indicates a trend towards…”

We should note these synonyms within the context of their sentences to maintain the intended meaning.

Additionally, more specific phrases may better suit certain contexts:

  • For a broad summary of the work: “In sum, our investigation elucidates…”
  • To preface overarching conclusions: “To synthesize, the data align with…”
  • When highlighting the scope of research: “Our study encompasses a range of topics…”

We embrace these alternatives to enhance our academic writing and ensure it meets the required standards of formality and precision.

Synonyms for Overall in Different Contexts

In general usage.

  • General : Our general impression of the new policy is quite positive.
  • Universal : The universal appeal of the book made it a bestseller.
  • Total : After adding up all the expenses, the total came to $1,500.

For Broad Applications

  • Comprehensive : We offer a comprehensive guide to local restaurants.
  • Sweeping : The new regulations have sweeping implications.
  • Global : Climate change is a global concern that affects us all.

In Specialized Contexts

  • Exhaustive : Our exhaustive research ensures we have all the facts.
  • All-inclusive : The tour price is all-inclusive , covering all accommodations and meals.
  • All-encompassing : The documentary provides an all-encompassing view of the crisis.

Absolute and Near Synonyms of Overall

Absolute synonyms for overall.

Synonym Meaning
Total Incorporating the whole amount or number
Comprehensive Including all, or nearly all, elements or aspects
Complete Having all the necessary or appropriate parts

Near Synonyms for Overall

Synonym Meaning
General Relating to all cases or members of a group or category
Extensive Covering a large area; having a wide scope
Sweeping Wide in range or effect
Universal Applicable to all cases
Global Relating to the whole world

Synonyms for Overall with Examples | Infographic

Another Word for Overall | 85+ Synonyms for "Overall" with Useful Examples

Frequently Asked Questions

What alternative expressions can I use for ‘overall’ when writing an essay?

When writing an essay, we can use expressions like “as a whole,” “all things considered,” or “by and large” as alternatives to ‘overall.’

Could you list some synonyms and antonyms for ‘overall’ typically found in IELTS exams?

In IELTS exams, synonyms for ‘overall’ might include “generally,” “predominantly,” or “chiefly,” while antonyms could be “partially,” “specifically,” or “narrowly.”

How can ‘overall’ be replaced with a slang term in informal communication?

In informal communication, we can replace ‘overall’ with slang terms like “big picture,” “the gist,” or “the lowdown.”

What are some other ways to say ‘in conclusion’ that carry a similar meaning?

To express ‘in conclusion’ with a similar meaning, we might use phrases like “to sum up,” “ultimately,” or “all told.”

Can you provide me with a synonym for expressing the ‘overall view’ on a topic?

Certainly, for expressing the ‘overall view’, we could use “general consensus,” “broad perspective,” or “comprehensive viewpoint.”

What’s another phrase to describe the concept of ‘overall well-being’?

To describe ‘overall well-being,’ we could say “complete health,” “total wellness,” or “holistic health.”

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Grammar Check

Synonyms of overall

  • as in general
  • as in broad
  • as in prevailing
  • as in collectively
  • as in mostly
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Thesaurus Definition of overall

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Synonyms & Similar Words

  • across - the - board
  • overarching
  • comprehensive
  • broad - brush
  • all - embracing
  • inclusionary
  • broad - gauged
  • broad - gauge

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

  • fragmentary
  • constituent
  • cross - sectional
  • all - round
  • nonspecific
  • all - around
  • bird's - eye
  • indeterminate
  • unspecified
  • nondescript
  • unrestricted
  • particularized
  • mapped (out)
  • inventoried
  • predominant
  • contemporary
  • characteristic
  • preponderant
  • well - known
  • distinctive
  • idiosyncratic

Thesaurus Definition of overall  (Entry 2 of 2)

  • collectively
  • across the board
  • on the whole
  • inclusively
  • in the aggregate
  • collectedly
  • macroscopically
  • comprehensively
  • exhaustively
  • encyclopedically
  • microscopically
  • specifically
  • individually
  • exclusively
  • categorically
  • restrictedly
  • fractionally
  • predominantly
  • principally
  • substantially
  • by and large
  • practically
  • approximately
  • more or less
  • plus or minus
  • well - nigh
  • incompletely
  • unqualifiedly

Examples of overall in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'overall.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near overall

overambitious

Cite this Entry

“Overall.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overall. Accessed 18 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on overall

Nglish: Translation of overall for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of overall for Arabic Speakers

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adjective as in complete, general

Strongest matches

comprehensive , global , long-term

Strong matches

blanket , sweeping , total , umbrella

Weak matches

all-embracing , inclusive , long-range , thorough

adverb as in in general

all over , chiefly , everyplace , everywhere , generally speaking , in the long run , largely , mainly , mostly , on the whole , predominantly , primarily , principally , throughout

Example Sentences

So if this bears out, the more people who are vaccinated in a community, including children, the more likely transmission will drop overall.

McMillin said fast-tracking the platform project did not raise the project’s overall budget.

Google’s Danny Sullivan said that if manual actions for News or Discover won’t impact your overall Google Search performance.

Over the summer, as cases surged, so did Republican concern — but Americans overall were 20 points more likely to express concern than were Republicans.

For instance, the startup’s games have been downloaded 250 million times overall since the creation of the company in 2018.

Music is a huge part of the tone of Black Dynamite overall—going back to the original 2009 movie on which the series is based.

According to James, by 2014 his business did close to $2 million in overall sales.

Are you more pessimistic about the overall public education crisis given this current environment?

Overall, Paris Magnum reaches both too widely and too thinly in trying to convey a sense of spectrum.

But overall the legal system has done little to say “this was against the law.”

"Wait," said Chief Inspector Kerry, and went swinging in, carrying his overall and having the malacca cane tucked under his arm.

He replaced the receiver, took up a wet oilskin overall from the back of a chair and the cane from the mantleshelf.

It was ajar, and Kerry, taking an electric torch from his overall pocket, flashed the light upon the name-plate.

He was slight, wore a workman's overall suit, and he had a lunch box under his arm.

Rapidly he removed his reefer and his waistcoat, folded them, and placed them neatly beside his overall.

Related Words

Words related to overall are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word overall . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

adjective as in general

  • all-inclusive
  • broad-spectrum
  • comprehensive
  • far-reaching
  • wide-ranging
  • wide-reaching

adjective as in comprehensive

  • across-the-board
  • unconditional
  • far-ranging

adverb as in most importantly

  • essentially
  • in the first place
  • in the main
  • on the whole
  • predominantly
  • principally

adjective as in inclusive

  • all-embracing
  • compendious
  • encyclopedic
  • lock stock and barrel
  • of great scope
  • the big picture
  • the whole shebang
  • wall-to-wall

Viewing 5 / 26 related words

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

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Thesaurus for Overall

Related terms for overall - synonyms, antonyms and sentences with overall, similar meaning.

  • comprehensive
  • by and large
  • on the whole
  • all-inclusive
  • all-embracing
  • overarching

Opposite meaning

  • nonstandard
  • unconventional
  • individualised
  • individualized
  • especially adapted for
  • especially created for
  • especially designed for
  • especially developed for
  • especially fitted for
  • especially intended for
  • especially made for
  • especially produced for

Common usage

  • in many cases
  • photography
  • nonsectarian
  • collaboratively
  • around the globe
  • multicultural
  • considerable

Sentence Examples

Proper usage in context.

  • Overall, we have been pleased with the progress of negotiations Ian Hamilton
  • The one overall structure in my plays is language Edward Bond
  • Overall the audio has a weak, congested sound to it
  • Overall, then, there is no trend from dextrality to sinistrality
  • The overall style of Gordan's mathematical work was algorithmic