as in distinctiveness
the quality or state of being different
from an early age he could sense that there was an otherness about him—he was somehow different from the other kids
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of otherness
There’s a lot of ways to tackle otherness and discrimination.
—
Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 10 Jan. 2026
While Monster luxuriated in Gein’s unraveling mind, showcasing his otherness with sequences of Gein dancing with spinning chainsaws and posing in his skin suit, Devil in Disguise is all the more effective for emphasizing Gacy’s ability to go unnoticed.
—Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2025
The film’s queerness extends beyond Palmer’s portrayal of out lesbian Emerald Haywood; in addition to being a commentary on the way the entertainment industry consumes us, Nope is also about otherness.
—Samantha Allen, Them., 7 Oct. 2025
Tower of Now acts as a visual lexicon of architectural motifs, inviting viewers to find both familiarity and otherness.
—Lee Sharrock, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for otherness
Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 10 Jan. 2026
While Monster luxuriated in Gein’s unraveling mind, showcasing his otherness with sequences of Gein dancing with spinning chainsaws and posing in his skin suit, Devil in Disguise is all the more effective for emphasizing Gacy’s ability to go unnoticed.
—Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2025
The film’s queerness extends beyond Palmer’s portrayal of out lesbian Emerald Haywood; in addition to being a commentary on the way the entertainment industry consumes us, Nope is also about otherness.
—Samantha Allen, Them., 7 Oct. 2025
Tower of Now acts as a visual lexicon of architectural motifs, inviting viewers to find both familiarity and otherness.
—Lee Sharrock, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for otherness
Recent Examples of Synonyms for otherness
Noun
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For Glomski, that distinctiveness is the point.—
Peter Burke,
FOXNews.com,
15 Feb. 2026
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In the immediate future, Murray said, the Post would concentrate on areas that demonstrate authority, distinctiveness and impact, and resonate with readers, including politics, national affairs and security.—
David Bauder,
Fortune,
4 Feb. 2026
Noun
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How can the sense of an absolute union of all matter be reconciled with the endless multiplicity and distinctness of it?—
Christian Wiman,
Harpers Magazine,
30 Dec. 2025
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However, a few hours with Air Riders reveals the nuance and depth of its gameplay, the distinctness of this flavor of racing game and its sensory, chaotic, and strategic appeal.—
Ryan Gaur,
Rolling Stone,
19 Nov. 2025
Noun
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Milford’s depth was the difference as Brayden Boccia at 126 pounds delivered a decisive 10-0 pinfall victory continuing a family legacy on the mat.—
Brian Fabry,
Boston Herald,
22 Feb. 2026
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Basyrova’s jump shots and senior wing Cara McKel’s backdoor layups were the difference makers on offense.—
Tony Gleason,
Daily News,
22 Feb. 2026
Noun
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The diversity of influences continued throughout the record and the performances on Monday.—
Peter Larsen,
Daily News,
25 Feb. 2026
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According to Shapiro, probiotic foods—many of which also contain protein or fiber too—have the potential to improve digestion, reduce bloating, support immune health by strengthening gut barrier function, and promote microbial diversity.—
Michele Ross,
SELF,
24 Feb. 2026
Noun
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Different legal paths Although the four men were swept into the same investigation, their legal histories diverged — a distinction that will likely shape any effort to obtain restitution.—
Tony Plohetski,
Austin American Statesman,
23 Feb. 2026
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The present moment may be witnessing a form of wholesale foreclosure, where the reading of books, and the practice of deep reading, may signal one’s class distinction.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
23 Feb. 2026
Noun
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It's even found in the quiet, calming oases that is this city's epic hotel scene, a wonderful contrast to the heaving and exhilarating urban energy beyond its grand doors.—
Chris Schalkx,
Condé Nast Traveler,
21 Feb. 2026
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The black dial shows off Roman numerals on the top half and Arabic numerals on the bottom, a distinct look designed to be legible even in dark conditions thanks to that contrast.—
Nicole Hoey,
Robb Report,
20 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Otherness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/otherness. Accessed 28 Feb. 2026.
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