intensity
12 synonyms for intensity, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The quality or degree of being strong, forceful, or extreme.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use intensity
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
high intensity
increase in intensity
emotional intensity
Etymology
From "intense" + the noun-forming suffix "-ity."
Full origin of intensity →Frequently asked questions
What does “intensity” mean?
The word “intensity” means the quality or degree of being strong, forceful, or extreme. In plain terms, how strong or extreme something is.
How do you pronounce “intensity”?
“Intensity” is pronounced ihn-TEHN-sih-tee (/ɪnˈtɛnsɪti/ in IPA).
How do you use “intensity” in a sentence?
Here is “intensity” used in a sentence: “The intensity of the workout left her exhausted.”
What part of speech is “intensity”?
“Intensity” is a noun.
Is “intensity” a common word?
“Intensity” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between "intensity" and "strength"?
"Strength" refers to how powerful or capable something is, while "intensity" describes how concentrated, extreme, or forceful that quality feels at a given moment. Exercise can build strength, but its intensity is how hard it feels while you are doing it.
What is the difference between "intensity" and "intenseness"?
Both are nouns formed from "intense," but "intensity" is far more common in everyday and scientific writing. "Intenseness" is rare and can sound awkward, so "intensity" is the safer choice in almost every context.
What words commonly go with "intensity"?
"Intensity" often appears in phrases such as "increase in intensity," "with great intensity," and "emotional intensity." In science it pairs with light, sound, and colour, as in "light intensity."
Can "intensity" be used in the plural?
Yes, "intensities" is used, especially in technical or scientific writing where measured levels are compared, such as "signal intensities." In everyday language the singular "intensity" is far more common.
