Definition of similaritynext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word similarity distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of similarity are analogy, likeness, resemblance, and similitude. While all these words mean "agreement or correspondence in details," likeness implies a closer correspondence than similarity which often implies that things are merely somewhat alike.

a remarkable likeness to his late father
some similarity between the two cases

When could analogy be used to replace similarity?

In some situations, the words analogy and similarity are roughly equivalent. However, analogy implies likeness or parallelism in relations rather than in appearance or qualities.

pointed out analogies to past wars

Where would resemblance be a reasonable alternative to similarity?

The words resemblance and similarity can be used in similar contexts, but resemblance implies similarity chiefly in appearance or external qualities.

statements that bear little resemblance to the truth

In what contexts can similitude take the place of similarity?

While in some cases nearly identical to similarity, similitude applies chiefly to correspondence between abstractions.

two schools of social thought showing points of similitude

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 similarity There were already similarities between the two companies — both were driven by engineering and customer success. Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, semafor.com, 26 June 2026 Yes, there are similarities between two workplace series where a season takes place over a compressed period of time. Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 26 June 2026 His 15th studio effort reconfigures blues, hip-hop, punk, and electro into a stark, collagist sound that emphasizes those genre’s similarities while highlighting their contrasts. Hattie Lindert, Pitchfork, 25 June 2026 Vance then noted his own similarities with Nixon. ABC News, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for similarity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for similarity
resemblance
Noun
  • During the 0-0 draw between Ecuador and Curaçao at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, locals noted online that Ecuador’s manager, Sebastián Beccacece, bears a striking resemblance to the local legal phenomenon.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 22 June 2026
  • These slip-ons bear a striking resemblance to Field’s pair with a simple black upper and white platform soles.
    Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Similarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/similarity. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.

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