Definition of disparatenext

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of disparate are different, divergent, diverse, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When can different be used instead of disparate?

The words different and disparate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

different foods

When is it sensible to use divergent instead of disparate?

In some situations, the words divergent and disparate are roughly equivalent. However, 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 disparate?

While the synonyms diverse and disparate are close in meaning, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

When could various be used to replace disparate?

While in some cases nearly identical to disparate, 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 disparate The disparate responses to Khamenei’s assassination reflect foundational questions about Iran’s future. Robin Wright, New Yorker, 1 Mar. 2026 So these attacks by the Iranians appear to be more and more random, disparate and indiscriminate. Yarden Segev, NBC news, 1 Mar. 2026 The disparate responses of the South Florida delegation, who’ve sought to be the voice of the Cuban diaspora in Congress, point to the tense stakes of the timing of the shootout. Claire Heddles, Miami Herald, 28 Feb. 2026 That means clients, whether a small emerging brand or a corporate buyer, can work with a single partner rather than managing disparate contacts and vendors. Matt Emma, USA Today, 26 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disparate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparate
Adjective
  • These factors have turned the Ellisons into Murdoch-like pariahs among many Democrats, and have brought together a somewhat ideologically diverse antitrust coalition, ranging from the more centrist wing of the Democratic Party to the progressive left.
    Max Tani, semafor.com, 6 Mar. 2026
  • Multiple candidates among the leading contenders represent diverse backgrounds and experiences capable of addressing California’s major challenges.
    Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 5 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • How to play Mega Millions Player can pick six numbers from two separate pools of numbers — five different numbers from 1 to 70 (the white balls) and one number from 1 to 24 (the gold Mega Mall).
    Tanya Wildt, Freep.com, 7 Mar. 2026
  • While pleased to see the digital reconstruction, Martin said the geological age of the fossil remains unclear since different techniques have arrived at varied dates.
    Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 7 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The mangrove environment creates a distinctive paddling experience.
    Taylor Haught, Miami Herald, 4 Mar. 2026
  • Founded in 1929 in Prague, Czechoslovakia, Jawa’s first model was the 500 OHV, which did wonders in establishing the brand’s reputation for solid engineering and distinctive design.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 4 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • But Yee hopes that straight talk and her distinct lack of ornamentation will count for something with California voters.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 8 Mar. 2026
  • Their resistance carried distinct risks.
    Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 8 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Disparate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparate. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

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