Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Invent” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
To create or make something new that has never been made or existed before.
Meaning of Invent
To create or design something completely new that did not exist before.
How to Pronounce Invent
IPA: /ɪnˈvɛnt/ Stress: oO
Two syllables: in-VENT. Primary stress on second syllable. Rhymes with 'went' and 'sent'.
4 Synonyms for Invent — Words Similar to Invent
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
create
/kriˈeɪt/To make something new that did not exist before.
Example: Artists create beautiful paintings.
devise
/dɪˈvaɪz/To think of a new plan or method to solve a problem.
Example: The chief engineer devised an innovative new solution that successfully reduced the company's energy consumption by twenty percent.
design
/dɪˈzaɪn/To make a detailed plan for how something will look or work before building it.
Example: The architect will design the new building next spring.
develop
/dɪˈvɛləp/To grow and improve, or to create and build something gradually.
Example: Children develop different skills as they grow older.
Smart Synonyms for Invent — When to Use Each
create
for making something entirely new from scratch
devise
for planning or developing a scheme or method
develop
for bringing something gradually from idea to completion
Antonyms of Invent — Opposite Words
How to Use Invent and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- Thomas Edison invented the electric light bulb in 1879. B1
- The company invented a new smartphone technology last year. B1
- She invent an excuse to avoid attending the meeting. B1
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Invent
What is another word for "invent"?
Common synonyms for "invent" include: create, devise, design, develop.
What can I say instead of "invent"?
Try one of these alternatives: create, devise, design, develop. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "invent" formal or informal?
"invent" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "invent" instead of "create"?
Use "invent" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "create" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "invent"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "invent" include: copy, imitate, duplicate.