Definition of disparatenext

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of disparate are different, divergent, diverse, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When can different be used instead of disparate?

The words different and disparate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

different foods

When is it sensible to use divergent instead of disparate?

In some situations, the words divergent and disparate are roughly equivalent. However, 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 disparate?

While the synonyms diverse and disparate are close in meaning, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

When could various be used to replace disparate?

While in some cases nearly identical to disparate, 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 disparate From $170,500 While disparate inform and function, the finest motorcycles and watches are both mechanical masterworks, which is why the collaboration between horologist Richard Mille and bike-builder Brough Superior feels at once unexpected and inevitable. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 17 June 2026 Even in recordings from the ’90s, Alfa displays a reserved but expressive personality, and a talent for fusing disparate sounds fluidly together. H.d. Angel, Pitchfork, 16 June 2026 Under the old framework, that drift was a disparate-impact problem lenders had to monitor. Dara-Abasi Ita, Forbes.com, 14 June 2026 What a great excuse to weave insanely disparate situations into one narrative; obliterate the line between realistic and whimsical. Andrew P. Collins, The Drive, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for disparate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparate
Adjective
  • Working with sister stylist duo Chloe and Chenelle Delgadillo, Rodrigo has reconstructed her signature looks to feel softer and more grown-up, with outfits drawing from fashion references just as diverse as her musical taste.
    Chelsey Sanchez, CNN Money, 25 June 2026
  • This is a really fun, diverse set of applications all mysteriously falling under the heading of the positive Grassmannian.
    Quanta Magazine, Quanta Magazine, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • There are four main courses in the area — dirt, park, street and vertical — all with different styles of judging and competition.
    Sean Campbell, Sacbee.com, 27 June 2026
  • The two parties would take a somewhat different approach for police protection at high-security venues.
    David Zahniser, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026
Adjective
  • The Lebanese Australian producer created his distinctive style by blending sounds from the Arab world with hard-hitting bass music.
    Andrew Ryce, Pitchfork, 24 June 2026
  • Banfield-Norris, who is Jaden’s grandmother, served a softer contrast to her grandkids’ shoes, opting for the elegant Christian Louboutin Senora leopard-print sandals, which feature a distinctive red sole and a T-strap design.
    Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • Three distinct routes for ships have now emerged, with different authorities vying to organize the transit of dozens of vessels through the waterway.
    Xiaoqian Lin, CNN Money, 29 June 2026
  • The group categories delivered two distinct flavors of excellence.
    Faye Bradley, Variety, 28 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Disparate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparate. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on disparate

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster