disparate 1 of 2

Definition of disparatenext

disparity

2 of 2

noun

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
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
Noun
State and federal civil rights laws prevent hiring or promotion decisions based on race or gender, but employers are permitted to create affirmative action plans in narrow circumstances to address workforce disparities in historically segregated jobs. Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 26 Feb. 2026 Conversely, without greater participation, disparities in wealth would only be increased according to the report. Frank Holland, CNBC, 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
Noun
  • The difference between the two teams in the table could be more than just one point after this weekend’s encounter.
    Graham Ruthven, New York Times, 28 Feb. 2026
  • Bridges later established the Ruby Bridges Foundation to promote respect and appreciation for people’s differences.
    Susan DeGrane, Chicago Tribune, 28 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Each ticket costs $5, and players may 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 Ball) - or select Easy Pick/Quick Pick.
    Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 28 Feb. 2026
  • However, On Fire With Jeff Probst won't return in its usual form for Survivor 50, Entertainment Weekly has learned, as CBS is taking a different approach to promote the show's milestone 50th season.
    Staff Author, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • For Glomski, that distinctiveness is the point.
    Peter Burke, FOXNews.com, 15 Feb. 2026
  • In the immediate future, Murray said, the Post would concentrate on areas that demonstrate authority, distinctiveness and impact, and resonate with readers, including politics, national affairs and security.
    David Bauder, Fortune, 4 Feb. 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
Noun
  • How can the sense of an absolute union of all matter be reconciled with the endless multiplicity and distinctness of it?
    Christian Wiman, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025
  • However, a few hours with Air Riders reveals the nuance and depth of its gameplay, the distinctness of this flavor of racing game and its sensory, chaotic, and strategic appeal.
    Ryan Gaur, Rolling Stone, 19 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • And while some seasons in the past have felt safe in the Italian fashion capital, many Milan designers took risks this season, pushing a distinct vision.
    Lucy Maguire, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026
  • Its design draws inspiration from classic European architecture and art, creating a distinct identity within a neighborhood already known for its Mediterranean Revival style.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Many trees also attract a diversity of wildlife to feast on fruits and seeds or sip pollen from blooms, all of which enhance a garden’s beauty.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 3 Mar. 2026
  • On individual grades, OCU has an A- in academics, A in diversity and A- in campus.
    Isa Almeida, Oklahoman, 3 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Disparate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparate. Accessed 6 Mar. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on disparate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster