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
His output more closely resembles that of an old studio film director’s than of a typical contemporary literary novelist, with certain themes and preoccupations reappearing across books of otherwise disparate subject matter. — Literary Hub, 1 Oct. 2026 The French government fears that the situation could escalate if disparate protests converge. — Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 1 Oct. 2026
Noun
Despite winning the division, given the disparity in market, payroll, and legacy – the Rays have two pennants, but no World Series titles, in their 29-year history – it would still be seen as David taking down Goliath. — Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 7 Oct. 2026 Those disparities run throughout the site, according to the KFF analysis. — Berkeley Lovelace Jr, NBC news, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disparate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparate
Adjective
  • Today a myriad of arts organizations champion wildly diverse missions.
    — Leslie Pariseau, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 Oct. 2026
  • Wendi Weston, Sacramento County program coordinator for Master Food Preservers, said cultural and local education are core aspects of the group’s work, as California’s diverse population brings a melting pot of cuisines with it.
    — Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 11 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Disney — also profitable — has made three rounds of layoffs in 2026 across different parts of the business.
    — Todd Spangler, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026
  • In reality, both objects orbit the star in the same direction, just at different, changing speeds.
    — Phil Plait, Scientific American, 16 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • And yet that bright, sweet aroma is front and center in Creed Aventus, the distinctive eau de parfum widely believed to take inspiration from the French emperor’s indomitable spirit.
    — Robb Report, Robb Report, 9 Oct. 2026
  • But the show’s appeal went beyond its distinctive look, according to the exec.
    — Mathew Scott, HollywoodReporter, 9 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Coleman said each design has its own distinct character and can be styled individually, either as a subtle everyday detail or a sculptural statement.
    — Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Scientists have performed cosmic genealogy on planetary systems in the Milky Way, finding two distinct families that influence the evolution and fate of these systems.
    — Robert Lea, Space.com, 14 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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