Definition of variousnext

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of various are different, disparate, divergent, and diverse. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," various stresses the number of sorts or kinds.

tried various methods

When could different be used to replace various?

While the synonyms different and various are close in meaning, different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

different foods

When is it sensible to use disparate instead of various?

The synonyms disparate and various are sometimes interchangeable, but disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When would divergent be a good substitute for various?

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

went on to pursue divergent careers

When is diverse a more appropriate choice than various?

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

such diverse interests as dancing and football

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 various And that’s despite the staunch support of Big Tech, both in terms of funding and political influence across various platforms. — Nina Verdelli, Vanity Fair, 24 Oct. 2026 The 16-time world heavyweight champion has endured various health ailments over the years. — Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 24 Oct. 2026 Sacramento County Health Inspectors gave a red placard to Wienerschnitzel in Natomas after finding 33 German cockroaches in various areas of the facility including on the floor beneath the ice machine and on three glue traps. — Sacbee.com, 23 Oct. 2026 The skirt of the look also included a black belt with various charms and hardware. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for various
Recent Examples of Synonyms for various
Adjective
  • There is a wall with removable dashboard panels across the color spectrum and a couple of miniature models of the cab with tiny, colored panels to help customers decide on the details.
    — Eric Bangeman, ArsTechnica, 20 Oct. 2026
  • Finance Buzz named Dollar Tree’s solid colored plastic partyware as one of its best dupes for more expensive items.
    — Lauren Schuster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The results are most effective when the lyrics are tight and embody the colorful feelings that Greene’s music often evokes.
    — Kiana Mickles, Pitchfork, 23 Oct. 2026
  • At Casa Brera, her colorful and sophisticated design appears more timeless than ever, establishing a strong link with the Milanese soul of the place as well as creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior of the hotel.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Even after the engines are removed, firms are looking for parts as varied as landing gear and antennae to sell.
    — Leslie Josephs, CNBC, 24 Oct. 2026
  • In the ads analyzed by Noticias Telemundo, the form and content indicating it was done with AI varied; there were differences ranging from the text size to the wording.
    — Anagilmara Vílchez, NBC news, 23 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 26 Oct. 2026.

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