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 Nappa Leather Double Buckle Slides bear a striking resemblance to a far more expensive pair on the market, yet come in under $100 without cutting corners on quality materials. Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 10 June 2026 The animal first gained attention after a local farmer noticed the resemblance. Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 4 June 2026 The Troodos Mountains, Cyprus — Mount Olympus rises more than 1,900 meters, offering hiking and cycling in warm months and skiing in winter, plus traditional villages like Lofou that bear no resemblance to a typical Cyprus beach holiday. Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 3 June 2026 The crunchy toppings and crispy cone are great, but the cones are filled with a pillowy, sweet concoction that bears little resemblance to ice cream. Jolene Thym, Mercury News, 3 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for resemblance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resemblance
similarity
Noun
  • Both teams are coming off opening losses, but that’s about where the similarities end.
    The Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 21 June 2026
  • Indeed, any similarities will help tell us how asteroids were herded around during the first few hundred million years of solar system history following the formation of the planets.
    Keith Cooper, Space.com, 19 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resemblance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resemblance. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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