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 High or increasing addictive use trajectories were associated with elevated risks of suicidal behaviors or ideation compared with low addictive use, the study found. Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 1 Apr. 2026 The goal, supporters say, is to allow parents and caregivers to make more informed choices when comparing diaper brands. Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Apr. 2026 Still, the sequence of events leading up to Artemis II has at times seemed accelerated, particularly compared with the monthslong process of preparing for the last Artemis flight, called Artemis I, in 2022. Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 1 Apr. 2026 Side effects, mostly gastrointestinal issues, led between 5% and 10% of participants in the orforglipron study to discontinue treatment, compared with nearly 3% in the placebo group. ABC News, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for compare
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compare
Verb
  • In the latter category was presenter Jimmy Kimmel, who, in an act of exaggeration that would be Swiftian if intentional, equated the free speech policies of North Korea with those of, um, CBS.
    Peter Tonguette, The Washington Examiner, 20 Mar. 2026
  • For years, the FedRAMP process has been equated with actual security, Sager said.
    Renee Dudley, ProPublica, 18 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Yet immigration agents now routinely wear masks, drive unmarked cars, and refuse to identify themselves.
    Oriana van Praag, New Yorker, 28 Mar. 2026
  • Investigators say there have been no arrests, and no suspect has been publicly identified, but detectives are actively pursuing leads.
    Jamie Leary, CBS News, 28 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Democratic gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer has made millions of dollars investing in offshore private equity funds connected to islands known for lax tax policies, according to tax returns posted Thursday.
    Ben Paviour, Sacbee.com, 28 Mar. 2026
  • Your network is ready to grow, and travel, whether to see existing friends or connect with professional contacts, is well supported this month.
    Kirah Tabourn, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Despite the two sharing the same last name, deputies did not note if the two missing women are related.
    Dean Fioresi, CBS News, 29 Mar. 2026
  • Then, as the pandemic waned, in 2023 and early ’24, came two jolts to the system – federal pandemic-era assistance ended, pulling food and food-related funding away from charities, and the number of people seeking food continued to grow.
    Andre Mouchard, Oc Register, 29 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Compare.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compare. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

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