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
What unites these seemingly disparate topics is Wilson’s knack for putting himself into scenarios with unusual people that lead him into unexpected territory—a lesson in the virtues of simple observation. — Alex Jhamb Burns, Vogue, 19 Sep. 2026 Know More Not all AI safety experts and advocates identify as effective altruists, and different groups working on the topic have disparate goals, funding, and membership. — Ashley Gold, semafor.com, 17 Sep. 2026
Noun
Advocates say the practice of forcing people to sell homes exacerbates long-standing income disparities in the state. — Ginny Monk, Hartford Courant, 28 Sep. 2026 What readers are saying The conversation explores various perspectives on improving education and addressing disparities in student performance. — Kevin Huffman, Washington Post, 28 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disparate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparate
Adjective
  • From excellent shopping in Alpharetta to Sandy Springs’s surprisingly diverse dining scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
    — Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 27 Sep. 2026
  • The diverse region, which accounts for a fifth of the world's growing energy demand, depended heavily on fossil fuel imports from the Middle East.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 26 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • This is a season so overwhelmingly dull that it’s taken three different gay guys to recap it.
    — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 2 Oct. 2026
  • The new four-page indictment did not add a different type of offense.
    — Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 2 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Resnikoff fully inhabits the role of Jaku, giving him a distinctive and consistent voice, posture and temperament.
    — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 2 Oct. 2026
  • Los Feliz’s Shakespeare Bridge, a 262-foot span with Gothic-style arches and eight distinctive turrets, is approaching its 100th anniversary.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 2 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • For dinner, there are five solid options, each with its own distinct menu and mood.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Oct. 2026
  • The home button has its own distinct metal surface, and other buttons on the remote are indented or distinctly shaped.
    — Todd Spangler, Variety, 30 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Disparate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparate. Accessed 4 Oct. 2026.

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