Synonym Chooser

How is the word different different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of different are disparate, divergent, diverse, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

different foods

When could disparate be used to replace different?

The words disparate and different are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When can divergent be used instead of different?

Although the words divergent and different have much in common, divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation.

went on to pursue divergent careers

In what contexts can diverse take the place of different?

In some situations, the words diverse and different are roughly equivalent. However, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

Where would various be a reasonable alternative to different?

While in some cases nearly identical to different, various stresses the number of sorts or kinds.

tried various methods

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of different Weiss: How different is the production process now when compared to the original run? Josh Weiss, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025 But also, everybody plays so different in the genre. Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 27 May 2025 In fact, in 2023, only about 7.9% of manufacturing workers were unionized, which is not crazy different from the overall union membership rate in the private sector, which stood at about 5.9%. Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 27 May 2025 So from that conversation all those years ago, what ended up being different in the finale? EW.com, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for different
Recent Examples of Synonyms for different
Adjective
  • Her book, Perfect Day Chicago, which highlights the Windy City’s diverse neighborhoods, was just published.
    Wendy Altschuler, Forbes.com, 25 May 2025
  • From the nightlife of Hartford to the quiet beaches of Madison and Old Lyme, Connecticut offers LGBTQ+ travelers diverse experiences in an accepting environment.
    Joshua Alston, USA Today, 24 May 2025
Adjective
  • Preventing germs from taking over your cookout To prevent bacteria in raw meat from contaminating other foods, use one cutting board or plate for raw meat, poultry and seafood and a separate one for produce, bread, and other foods that won't be cooked, the CDC suggests.
    Mike Snider, USA Today, 25 May 2025
  • However, the two went their separate ways ways in 2000.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, People.com, 24 May 2025
Adjective
  • Now, Robbins is using his whip-smart humor and distinctive social media persona to address a very real problem: the diaper crisis.
    Erin Lassner, HollywoodReporter, 20 May 2025
  • Maldito’s distinctive take on femininity is applied to the boots, with a wavy bow adorning the shaft.
    Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 20 May 2025
Adjective
  • The pause also affects M visas, which are for vocational or non-academic students and J visas, which are for exchange visitors, along with their respective dependent categories (M-2 and J-2).
    Billal Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 May 2025
  • The two men got into their respective vehicles and drove away.
    Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • One of the most effective ways to do this is by specializing in client segments with distinct financial needs, values, and life experiences.
    Jason Katz, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025
  • The timber and the distinct design spoke of finality.
    Tammy Ljungblad, Kansas City Star, 17 May 2025
Adjective
  • Since 2013, Moore has worked as the Dolphins’ senior vice president of special projects and alumni relations, helping former players stay connected with the team as well as assisting Dolphins Vice Chairman, President and CEO Tom Garfinkel with various programs.
    C. Isaiah Smalls II, Miami Herald, 19 May 2025
  • Lei said that, due to various reasons and setbacks, the research and development of SoCs was suspended.
    Arjun Kharpal, CNBC, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • The pair have known each other for a while, with Ferguson guesting on Hot in Cleveland and Malick appearing on Modern Family.
    Jordan Hoffman, EW.com, 25 May 2025
  • Google, Amazon and other major tech platforms envision a future where online shopping becomes even more personalized and proactive.
    Queenie Wong, Los Angeles Times, 24 May 2025
Adjective
  • Gable Kahn masterfully tackles the constant and varied misogyny women face in society head-on, while also portraying a real, beautifully flawed MC.
    Carly Tagen-Dye, People.com, 24 May 2025
  • Nike’s rollout of Air Max 95 OG Big Bubble colorways has been varied.
    Riley Jones, Footwear News, 24 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Different.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/different. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on different

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