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 Founder Bryan Henson compares it to children’s building blocks. Abigail Stone, HollywoodReporter, 22 Apr. 2026 But international spending remains down by about $1 billion compared with pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the uneven recovery. Kenny Choi, CBS News, 22 Apr. 2026 Allen compares it to how people up north get ready for winter. ABC News, 21 Apr. 2026 Ryan is also the most accomplished player in Falcons history and finished his career with more than 62,000 regular-season passing yards, compared with Manning’s 57,023. Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 21 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for compare
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compare
Verb
  • Casseroles are equated with comfort.
    Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 18 Apr. 2026
  • In popular culture, resilience is often equated with grit, toughness or relentless positivity.
    Keith M. Bellizzi, The Conversation, 13 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Additional details were not immediately available, and the homeowner declined to be identified or comment further.
    Ashley Mackin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Police identified Delgado-Cordoba as a suspect through his rideshare profile, social media and DNA.
    Katie Langford, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • In a different draft class, the Browns would likely be connected to a first-round passer.
    Zac Jackson, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Alex Bregman delivered his biggest hit in a Cubs uniform, connecting on a game-tying solo home run off Blake Treinen in the eighth.
    Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 25 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • The Timberwolves can certainly relate.
    Sam Amick, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026
  • There is not enough information to know if Zimmerman’s early retirement and Dains’ removal are related.
    Ishani Desai, Sacbee.com, 25 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Compare.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compare. Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.

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