diverse

Synonym Chooser

How is the word diverse different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of diverse are different, disparate, divergent, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

When would different be a good substitute for diverse?

The words different and diverse 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 disparate instead of diverse?

The meanings of disparate and diverse largely overlap; however, disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

Where would divergent be a reasonable alternative to diverse?

Although the words divergent and diverse have much in common, divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation.

went on to pursue divergent careers

When might various be a better fit than diverse?

In some situations, the words various and diverse are roughly equivalent. However, various stresses the number of sorts or kinds.

tried various methods

Thesaurus Entries Near diverse

Cite this Entry

“Diverse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/diverse. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on diverse

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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