VIP

9 synonyms and 1 antonym for VIP, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Noun — A person who is given special treatment, privileged access or extra security because of their fame, wealth, rank or importance to an event.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

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Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

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Synonyms by Meaning

1. noun

A person who is given special treatment, privileged access or extra security because of their fame, wealth, rank or importance to an event.

“The band's manager met us backstage and waved us through as VIPs.”

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Opposites

nobody

2. adjective

Reserved for or aimed at such people; offering better seats, service or access than the standard option.

“VIP tickets include a meet-and-greet and free drinks.”

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How to use VIP

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

VIP treatment VIP lounge VIP ticket VIP guest VIP access

Neutral in general use; in ticketing and nightlife it is a marketing label rather than a real measure of status. Written in capitals, pluralised as VIPs.

Etymology

An initialism of very important person.

Full origin of VIP →

Frequently asked questions

What does VIP stand for?

Very important person. It began as a way of marking guests who needed special handling and is now used for anyone given upgraded access or service.

What is the difference between a VIP and an MVP?

A VIP is important because of who they are — their fame, rank or spending. An MVP is a most valuable player, someone singled out for what they did, usually in sport or on a team project.

Is VIP written with capital letters?

Yes. It is an initialism, so all three letters are capitalised, and the plural is VIPs with no apostrophe.

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Nearby words

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