compare

Definition of comparenext
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 scope of the agents’ actions led some historians to compare current events with Southern law enforcement’s use of tear gas during the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. Lisa Song, ProPublica, 27 May 2026 Segmentation of markets offers many advantages to marketers compared with mass marketing. Ezgi Eyüboğlu, Encyclopedia Britannica, 27 May 2026 But don't just compare rates, as the closing costs associated with each lender are also critical to account for and can make the difference in your ultimate decision as to who to utilize. Matt Richardson, CBS News, 27 May 2026 My trusty spreadsheet compared the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ state-by-state job counts for the first quarter of 2026 with the previous year. Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for compare
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compare
Verb
  • We are trained, from early on, to equate addition with progress.
    Nell Derick Debevoise Dewey, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026
  • While being named in the files does not equate with wrongdoing, and Mette-Marit has not been accused of any crimes, one of the biggest questions about the Epstein files surrounds her 2013 visit to the financier's home in Palm Beach, Fla.
    Meredith Kile, PEOPLE, 27 May 2026
Verb
  • Such plants are predominantly located in communities of color, with an average of 77% of the residents within a mile identifying as such, according to census data.
    Jason Henry, Oc Register, 30 May 2026
  • The suspect was identified as Olumuyiwa Akindahunsi, a 29-year-old homeless man not affiliated with the university, according to the UCLA Police Department.
    Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 30 May 2026
Verb
  • Akindahunsi is not believed to be connected to prior incidents at or around the UCLA campus, Richard Mejia, director of emergency communications, said in a statement.
    Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 30 May 2026
  • The company reviewed its safety protocols this week in response to the situation at GKN, which is not connected to Arkema.
    Jason Henry, Oc Register, 30 May 2026
Verb
  • Early in her address, Kornbluth talked about how people relate stories to her, of how MIT changed their lives.
    John Werner, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026
  • This is also an excellent day for creative work or coming up with new approaches to medicine or something that is health-related.
    Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 30 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Compare.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compare. Accessed 2 Jun. 2026.

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