Definition of differentnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word different different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of different are disparate, divergent, diverse, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

different foods

When could disparate be used to replace different?

The words disparate and different are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When can divergent be used instead of different?

Although the words divergent and different have much in common, divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation.

went on to pursue divergent careers

In what contexts can diverse take the place of different?

In some situations, the words diverse and different are roughly equivalent. However, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

Where would various be a reasonable alternative to different?

While in some cases nearly identical to different, various stresses the number of sorts or kinds.

tried various methods

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 different Developmental samples are experimental by nature, often mixing different materials and fibers, playing around with sequins or embellishments, maybe integrating zippers or buttons. — Bella Webb, Vogue, 8 Oct. 2026 Spain has different rules for her own critics Spain was still talking about her critics in a more recent episode, during a conversation with influencer Coach Jackie. — Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 8 Oct. 2026 In 2026, the play caller and personnel are dramatically different — and so are the results. — Bob Ferrante, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026 To try a different address or clear your results, select Clear search location at the top of the map. — Claire Malon, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for different
Recent Examples of Synonyms for different
Adjective
  • The move showcases a diverse cast of characters, showing that anyone, both old and young, model or otherwise, can wear Miu Miu.
    — Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 4 Oct. 2026
  • Coleman says university campuses have proven especially receptive to the kiosk and provide access to a diverse group of people.
    — Anna Zarra Aldrich, Hartford Courant, 4 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Lucy’s always been a hard vocalist to classify, intensely emotive but largely separate from the monster-growl arms race.
    — H.D. Angel, Pitchfork, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Accessibility Seven king and double/queen accessible rooms are fashioned with private, separate entrances and patios.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • And yet that bright, sweet aroma is front and center in Creed Aventus, the distinctive eau de parfum widely believed to take inspiration from the French emperor’s indomitable spirit.
    — Robb Report, Robb Report, 9 Oct. 2026
  • But the show’s appeal went beyond its distinctive look, according to the exec.
    — Mathew Scott, HollywoodReporter, 9 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • That should start with organizations developing comprehensive cybersecurity plans for their respective threat landscapes.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 5 Oct. 2026
  • The sets also each come with a presentation box with a slew of accessories in their respective colorways, including a loupe, a travel pouch, and a cardholder.
    — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 5 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • But even with 22 tracks to work with, the sound too often defaults to a similar muted backdrop, which blurs some of the less distinct songs together.
    — Molly Mary O’Brien, Pitchfork, 7 Oct. 2026
  • The rooms are designed for gathering, whether that's at the music venue, on the rooftop bar, or in one of the other distinct dining experiences.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The show is about the conglomeration of various immigrant groups and people taking advantage of one another in different ways in the Central Valley in California of that era.
    — Jasmine Vojdani, Vulture, 10 Oct. 2026
  • Arden wouldn’t disclose which ones would feature, but various accounts by fashion publications previously reported that Winehouse also wore Alien by Thierry Mugler, Vera Wang Princess, and Givenchy’s Hot Couture.
    — Hikmat Mohammed, ARTnews.com, 10 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Anderson of Johns Hopkins has been working with a dozen other researchers, through grants from Arnold Ventures, to study prices more and contemplate state-level legislation that mirrors the CBO’s options.
    — Bob Herman, STAT, 5 Oct. 2026
  • The incident became even more troubling after reports that models had turned up on a dozen other websites.
    — Alyson Shontell, Fortune, 5 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • By combining them in different proportions, the researchers can create 16 distinguishable colours and at least 300 different shades.
    — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 10 Oct. 2026
  • Given medium, proportions, and form, from a distance Shift is barely distinguishable from the land.
    — Jeffrey Weiss, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Different.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/different. Accessed 11 Oct. 2026.

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