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 Users can add hyperlinks, insert images, adjust page sizes, create bookmarks for easier navigation, and compare two PDFs side by side to identify changes. Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 11 Mar. 2026 Multiple people compared the snakes to weighted blankets, providing a firm, calming pressure. Deena Prichep, NPR, 11 Mar. 2026 Felony assaults in the system are up 12%, with 105 incidents reported in transit this year, compared with 94 by this time in 2025. Molly Crane-Newman, New York Daily News, 11 Mar. 2026 Detectives compared Birdow’s Facebook profile picture with previous booking photos and found that the account listed the same date of birth as previous records for him. Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for compare
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compare
Verb
  • Oklahoma Education Association President Cari Elledge equated the plan to mortgaging a teacher’s future for a salary increase today.
    Nuria Martinez-Keel, Oklahoma Voice, 6 Mar. 2026
  • The administration reframes the drug war as military conflict, equating cartels to terrorist groups like ISIS and prioritizing lethal force over law enforcement.
    Joshua Goodman, Los Angeles Times, 5 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • When numerous low-altitude targets appear, radar systems detect them amid the clutter – unwanted echoes from terrain, sea surfaces, rain or buildings – before identifying and continuously tracking them, reported SCMP.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 14 Mar. 2026
  • An aunt who lived across the street from the Sontags, in the Valley, had identified Susan as a suitably bright friend for him.
    Alex Ross, New Yorker, 14 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The jury appears to have been persuaded by prosecutors’ argument that the defendants were members of an antifa cell connected to an ideology that calls for the overthrow of the government.
    Emerson Clarridge Updated March 13, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Mar. 2026
  • Sabalenka connected on 38 of 58 first serves against the 14th-seeded Noskova and notched 11 aces to reach the finale for the third time in four years.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 14 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Despite their similar last names, the victim and suspect are not related, the source added.
    Rebecca White, New York Daily News, 8 Mar. 2026
  • While not exactly movie-related, Funko is famous for its Pops—small collectible figures known for their exaggerated features.
    Sari Hitchins, Parents, 8 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Compare.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compare. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.

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