Synonyms for

Pervasive

Verb / pɜ:ˈveɪsɪv / Another word for pervasive — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

spreading widely throughout an area or a group of people

Synonyms & similar words

permeating permeant permeative omnipresent ubiquitous widespread pervading penetrating all-encompassing universal rampant endemic prevalent invasive infiltrating diffusive diffusing permeating percolating extensive comprehensive far-reaching all-embracing

Synonyms by register

Formal

ubiquitous omnipresent widespread prevalent

Informal

everywhere all over the place common rife

Literary

suffusing percolating

Antonyms

limited scarce rare uncommon localized restricted isolated

Common collocations

  • pervasive influence
  • pervasive smell
  • pervasive corruption
  • pervasive myth
  • pervasive use
  • pervasive impact
  • pervasive problem

Word family

noun pervasiveness
adjective pervasive
adverb pervasively

Usage note

Pervasive often describes something negative or undesirable that is spreading widely. It is generally used in a formal or neutral context.

Example sentences

  1. The pervasive smell of cinnamon reminded me of my grandmother's house.
  2. Social media is pervasive in our daily lives.
  3. The pervasive use of plastic is causing harm to the environment.
  4. The pervasive feeling of anxiety made it hard to focus.
  5. The pervasive influence of technology is changing the way we live.

Quotes

  • The pervasive nature of social media means that everyone is connected, but no one is communicating. - Anonymous
  • Advertising is the most pervasive form of pollution in the world today. - Anonymous
  • The pervasive spread of misinformation is a threat to democracy. - Barack Obama

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