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Dictionary-enhanced synonyms

Synonyms for “Cry” — 3 Other Ways to Say It

To have tears come from your eyes when sad or upset.

IPA: /kraɪ/Level: A1Register: neutralPart of speech: verb

Meaning of Cry

To shed tears from the eyes, usually due to sadness or strong emotion.

How to Pronounce Cry

IPA: /kraɪ/ Stress: O

Rhymes with 'try', 'dry', and 'sky'. One syllable with a long 'i' sound.

Full pronunciation guide for cry →

3 Synonyms for Cry — Words Similar to Cry

Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.

weep

/wiːp/
verb B2

to shed tears and express sadness, often in a quiet or dignified way

Example: The baby weeps when hungry.

Smart Synonyms for Cry — When to Use Each

weep

for prolonged or quiet crying, often more literary

sob

when crying is accompanied by loud sounds and

How to Use Cry and Its Synonyms in Sentences

  • The baby begins to cry when she is hungry. A1
  • She will cry if she watches that sad movie. A1
  • They cry tears of joy when they see their family. A2

Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Cry

What is another word for "cry"?

Common synonyms for "cry" include: weep, sob, shed tears.

What can I say instead of "cry"?

Try one of these alternatives: weep, sob, shed tears. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.

Is "cry" formal or informal?

"cry" is generally used in neutral contexts.

When should I use "cry" instead of "weep"?

Use "cry" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "weep" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.

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