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
Adjective
In his heyday, Carpenter was masterful at juggling disparate tones. Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Aug. 2026 Democrats are hopeful that the disparate party turnout could signal a grim outlook for Republicans’ ironclad control of state politics. Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 6 Aug. 2026
Noun
Back in May, another disparity between state and federal law left a potential impact on the case. Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 13 Aug. 2026 In 1973, the Supreme Court held that the Constitution contained no right to education and that a funding disparity among school districts in Texas was not unconstitutional. Quinn Yeargain, The Conversation, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disparate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparate
Adjective
  • But a single letter can’t capture everyone’s experience all of the time – let alone a $31 trillion economy that is the biggest and most diverse in the world.
    David Goldman, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026
  • An influx of younger and diverse candidates (of little interest to big donors who prefer savvy incumbents) ran and won.
    Elona Vaisnys, Hartford Courant, 9 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • With Taylor trying to show different looks on offense, Burrow was under center on the first four plays and seven overall.
    CBS News, CBS News, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Many different clubs have considered moves for the rangy midfielder over the years, and Atletico came closest to signing him in summer 2024.
    Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The Angle Wedge Pillow's distinctive triangular shape cradles your legs and knees at a precise 45-degree angle to relieve tension in your back, while the Knee-T keeps legs, hips and spine in a neutral position to reduce pressure on your lower back.
    ABC News, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Xerjoff’s distinctive flacon is bathed in three dynamic colors that boldly represent Lamborghini’s super sports cars.
    Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 15 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Packages of drugs are often packaged with other distinct designs.
    CBS News, CBS News, 13 Aug. 2026
  • However, a whole-brain analysis did show distinct patterns of activity when the dogs saw faces showing the negative emotions.
    Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Disparate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparate. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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