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
But there are also real differences in both style and emphasis, and this would be a way to bridge them—to announce, in short, that these views are not too disparate to animate the same Administration. Bill McKibben, New Yorker, 16 July 2026 Workers are still free to pursue such lawsuits on their own if the EEOC rejects their complaints, and several state laws specifically prohibit disparate impact discrimination. Barbara Ortutay, Fortune, 15 July 2026
Noun
This one would ensure consistent funding for research on disparities in maternal care. Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 23 July 2026 Supporters describe it as a broad roadmap for addressing health disparities, noting that many of its individual provisions have been incorporated into other bills even as the broader proposal has stalled. Naomi Taxay, Sacbee.com, 22 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for disparate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparate
Adjective
  • Nolan's non-linear storytelling and minimal exposition challenge some, yet the visual grandeur and powerful performances, including Anne Hathaway's Penelope and a diverse ensemble, are undeniable.
    Hannah Abraham, Forbes.com, 18 July 2026
  • Following a $2 million renovation completed in 2015, the theater now hosts a diverse lineup of concerts, theatrical productions, comedy shows, and community events.
    Korrin Bishop, Southern Living, 18 July 2026
Adjective
  • That proposal calls for allowing a citizen in family court to ask for a different judge without having to provide a reason.
    Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 24 July 2026
  • The sky-high payments could be caused by a lot of different things — buyers wanting big cars, low credit scores pushing monthly payments higher or high credit scores allowing for bigger loans.
    Cassidy Alexander, AJC.com, 24 July 2026
Adjective
  • In simple terms, each quantum gate leaves behind its own distinctive statistical fingerprint.
    Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 18 July 2026
  • Once a working water tower, the Malibu Water Tower House has become one of the beach city’s most distinctive homes.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 18 July 2026
Adjective
  • Fans nostalgic for that era and the group’s distinct soulful sound have been waiting for new music ever since.
    Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 23 July 2026
  • There’s a handful of eating spots and watering holes here, each with a distinct vibe.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Disparate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparate. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.

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