Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective analogous contrast with its synonyms?

The words parallel and similar are common synonyms of analogous. While all three words mean "closely resembling each other," analogous applies to things belonging in essentially different categories but nevertheless having many similarities.

analogous political systems

When can parallel be used instead of analogous?

While the synonyms parallel and analogous are close in meaning, parallel suggests a marked likeness in the development of two things.

the parallel careers of two movie stars

When is it sensible to use similar instead of analogous?

The synonyms similar and analogous are sometimes interchangeable, but similar implies the possibility of being mistaken for each other.

all the houses in the development are similar

Examples 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 analogous The potential for outsized influence by a foreign power in a country’s internal affairs is analogous to the American discussion over fracking. Daniel Markind, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 The artist agents of recent years look to play an analogous role on behalf of artists themselves. Natasha Degen, Artforum, 1 Nov. 2024 Introduction In each of these columns separately, there is a wave side that consists of a collection of special functions analogous to repeating waves. Erica Klarreich, Quanta Magazine, 19 July 2024 Psychological and emotional impact of analogous color schemes Studies have been done to determine how analogous color schemes can affect one’s psychology and mood. Shelby Deering, Architectural Digest, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for analogous 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for analogous
Adjective
  • While the names may be similar (and the search results all ajumble), kissing biscuits are most assuredly meant for breakfast, not dessert.
    Amanda Holstein, Southern Living, 23 Nov. 2024
  • How Are Stuffing and Dressing Similar The recipes for stuffing and dressing are very similar.
    Emily Williams, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Firstly, the company’s comparable sales were lower sequentially compared to a 21% growth in Q1 2024, 18% growth in Q2, and 16% in Q3.
    Trefis Team, Forbes, 28 Nov. 2024
  • During the quarter, Nordstrom banner net sales increased 1.3 percent and comparable sales increased 4 percent.
    David Moin, WWD, 26 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Its 69 rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows and some have private landscaped terraces with wooden trellises sparkling with lights, but no two rooms are alike.
    Devorah Lev-Tov, TIME, 25 July 2024
  • Their cases seemed eerily alike to a lot of people, including Arelie’s sisters.
    Dateline NBC, NBC News, 16 July 2024
Adjective
  • There is currently only one such competition during the WNBA season: the Commissioner’s Cup.
    Mike Vorkunov, The Athletic, 3 Dec. 2024
  • In such upstream companies, individuals with a high degree of versatility and years of experience can end up filling a number of functions.
    David Blackmon, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near analogous

Cite this Entry

“Analogous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/analogous. Accessed 7 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on analogous

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