Definition of resemblancenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word resemblance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of resemblance are analogy, likeness, similarity, and similitude. While all these words mean "agreement or correspondence in details," resemblance implies similarity chiefly in appearance or external qualities.

statements that bear little resemblance to the truth

When might analogy be a better fit than resemblance?

The synonyms analogy and resemblance are sometimes interchangeable, but analogy implies likeness or parallelism in relations rather than in appearance or qualities.

pointed out analogies to past wars

How are the words likeness and similarity related as synonyms of resemblance?

Likeness implies a closer correspondence than similarity which often implies that things are merely somewhat alike.

a remarkable likeness to his late father
some similarity between the two cases

When is it sensible to use similitude instead of resemblance?

The meanings of similitude and resemblance largely overlap; however, similitude applies chiefly to correspondence between abstractions.

two schools of social thought showing points of similitude

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 resemblance The South Florida man, who bears more than a striking resemblance to Jeffrey Epstein, was cruising down I-95 in his convertible about a week ago when a passerby whipped out his phone. Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 25 Mar. 2026 Hunter added his client acknowledged there was a striking resemblance to her. Ubah Ali, CBS News, 24 Mar. 2026 Fittingly, the summit’s resemblance to summer camp fostered a mood of compulsory cheer. Gaby Del Valle, Harpers Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026 The resemblance in these clips was undeniable. Ella Chakarian, Rolling Stone, 24 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for resemblance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resemblance
similarity
Noun
  • However, the similarities to previous hypersonic trials suggest a continuation of ongoing test activity tied to the Dark Eagle program.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 28 Mar. 2026
  • These companies shared striking similarities.
    Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resemblance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resemblance. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.

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