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
That puts a disparate group of counties at the center of the November contest. Sophia Eppley, AJC.com, 2 Sep. 2026 The disparate set of requirements and functional demands calls for a highly versatile central nervous system that is flexible enough to support the Massive IoT space. Alper Yegin, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026
Noun
And this opportunity, particularly for women in both tennis and other sports where there is a broad gender pay disparity, is worthwhile. José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 9 Sep. 2026 The move is striking for a number of reasons, ranging from the existing budget disparities between the two parties involved to the fact that the money would be used for projects that the current NIH leadership has explicitly rejected. John Timmer, ArsTechnica, 8 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disparate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparate
Adjective
  • All who died, including my sister, Patricia Fagan, were a diverse cross-section of New Yorkers, and their memory can’t be erased.
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 6 Sep. 2026
  • Universal Studios Hollywood's Halloween Horror Nights is increasingly featuring horror from diverse cultures.
    Eve Chen, USA Today, 6 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Last month, Congo began vaccinating health and other front-line workers with the Ervebo vaccine that was effective in past Ebola outbreaks caused by a different, more common type called Zaire.
    JEAN-YVES KAMALE, Arkansas Online, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Indian dark and African dark were a different story altogether, seeming to hold something more sinister.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • That copper complex is also responsible for the formula’s distinctive blue hue, while glycerin and two forms of hyaluronic acid draw in moisture for an immediate plumping effect.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 6 Sep. 2026
  • During the traditional preparation process, calcium is added, which gives the jelly its distinctive firm and rubbery texture.
    Michiko Tomioka, CNBC, 5 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Celebrating three decades at Bergdorf’s, Fargo helped define style through her distinct visual storytelling and fashion curation while being an influential champion of American fashion.
    Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 9 Sep. 2026
  • Elsewhere, dining ranges from casual beachside fare and an award-winning bar serving signature cocktails to the Agave Study, where guests can explore the spirit’s provenance, production, and distinct character.
    Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Disparate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparate. Accessed 12 Sep. 2026.

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