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
The disparate evaluations come as staffing shortages forced eight of 43 complaints to be closed without a full investigation. Chase Hunter, Mercury News, 24 July 2026 Their disparate sonic elements form a dissonant but cohesive whole, wisps of trumpet and electronic woodwinds flashing by as quickly as flickering subway car lights. Sam Goldner, Pitchfork, 23 July 2026
Noun
There is no denying the grave disparity between the resources and care dedicated to marketing, covering and celebrating women’s football in Africa and what’s afforded to its counterparts, especially in North America and Europe. Tamerra Griffin, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026 The county’s Health Equity Council, which aims to reduce health disparities, including in mental health, was shuttered suddenly in early 2025. Kate Wells, Miami Herald, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disparate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparate
Adjective
  • But a single letter can’t capture everyone’s experience all of the time – let alone a $31 trillion economy that is the biggest and most diverse in the world.
    David Goldman, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026
  • An influx of younger and diverse candidates (of little interest to big donors who prefer savvy incumbents) ran and won.
    Elona Vaisnys, Hartford Courant, 9 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Bert McCarty, a Clemson University professor of turfgrass science and management, said golfers like how top courses are so different — from incorporating the ocean in places near beaches to relying on inclines in the mountains.
    ABC News, ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026
  • The tour, which began in 1999, showcases Slamdance titles to different audiences around the country, expanding their reach beyond the traditional film hubs of Los Angeles and New York.
    Savannah Sicurella, AJC.com, 7 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Even before the war, the country had already developed a large legal profession, sophisticated corporate firms, and distinctive constitutional institutions, although European legal systems retained greater intellectual prestige.
    Mark Jia, Foreign Affairs, 7 Aug. 2026
  • The label’s mission emphasizes distinctive creative voices and stories that defy genre convention.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 7 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • While the precise number of brokers managed by each service varies, there are some distinct differences.
    Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 5 Aug. 2026
  • Researchers looked at differences between the modern human and Neanderthal genomes and identified distinct genetic changes in Neanderthals’ growth hormone receptor—a key cell protein that helps regulate growth throughout the body.
    Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 5 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Disparate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparate. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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