compare

1
as in to equate
to describe as similar reviews that compared the adventure movie to a thrilling ride on a roller coaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in to identify
to regard or represent as equal or comparable compared the restaurant's food to the nectar of the gods

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word compare distinct from other similar verbs?

The words collate and contrast are common synonyms of compare. While all three words mean "to set side by side in order to show differences and likenesses," compare implies an aim of showing relative values or excellences by bringing out characteristic qualities whether similar or divergent.

compared the convention facilities of the two cities

In what contexts can collate take the place of compare?

The meanings of collate and compare largely overlap; however, collate implies minute and critical inspection in order to note points of agreement or divergence.

data from districts around the country will be collated

When might contrast be a better fit than compare?

While the synonyms contrast and compare are close in meaning, contrast implies an emphasis on differences.

contrasted the computerized system with the old filing cards

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 compare The researchers compared the standard screenings alone to the standard screenings plus the blood test. Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 21 Oct. 2025 Zimmerman argued the jurors comparing those images is the most prejudicial issue in terms of the misconduct during deliberations. Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 21 Oct. 2025 The data show a loss of over 1,600 students compared with last year’s initial count, a more than 2% decrease. Kayla Huynh, jsonline.com, 21 Oct. 2025 According to a Reuters/Ipsos survey released Monday, half of Americans say congressional Republicans are most responsible for the shutdown, compared with 43% who blame Democrats. Nik Popli, Time, 21 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for compare
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compare
Verb
  • By equating political opposition with terrorism, the administration is also militarizing America’s domestic landscape.
    Jason M. Blazakis, Mercury News, 18 Oct. 2025
  • That research found that 79 percent of consumers find brands using the Seal of Cotton trademark to be trustworthy, and 82 percent equate the label with sustainable production.
    Jennifer Bringle, Sourcing Journal, 17 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Using Hubble's data, astronomers have identified more than 80 possible star clusters inside this ring, many less than 100 million years old, though the spiral galaxy itself has likely persisted for over a billion years.
    Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 20 Oct. 2025
  • The post did not identify the boy or the friend who was with him.
    Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Online, 20 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Walker connected with Jordan Pedro for a 12-yard touchdown pass with 24 seconds left for good measure, sealing the deal for the Cougars.
    Brendan Connelly, Boston Herald, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Premium Quarterly Print Magazines Live Events & Networking Become part of a real-life community where curious minds connect.
    Big Think, Big Think, 17 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Frishkorn said the investigation will determine if the accident was alcohol or speed-related, but witnesses have indicated both of those may have been a factor.
    N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 20 Oct. 2025
  • The high court is already considering a separate, but related, dispute regarding National Guard deployment in Chicago where different federal court decisions have temporarily halted presidential intervention.
    Anna Commander, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Compare.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compare. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on compare

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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