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 Doctor is worried the uncanny resemblance is more than just a coincidence, and is amazed by the strength of the genetic link between two people living three millennia apart. Richard Edwards, Space.com, 13 Apr. 2025 In photos obtained by PEOPLE, PK was seen wearing head-to-toe black from his blazer to his shoes, while Shana — who has a striking resemblance to Dorit — was dressed in a white crop top, a matching midi skirt and chunky heels. Esther Kang, People.com, 25 Apr. 2025 The subplot bears at least some resemblance to the current headlines about the family of Salvadoran migrant Kilmar Abrego Garcia, and O’Connor admits that it’s been bizarre to see his long-gestating sequel become this relevant in real time. Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 25 Apr. 2025 Its bones bear a striking resemblance to those of modern Python and Malayopython, hinting at a similar lifestyle. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resemblance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resemblance
similarity
Noun
  • Alleviating chronic disease is also a passion of Kennedy’s, and the similarities between them run deep.
    Nicholas Florko, The Atlantic, 8 May 2025
  • The similarity between the two mottos and their proximity on the painting’s canvas suggest a sort of spiritual or emotional intimacy between Ginevra and Bembo.
    E.R. Zarevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Resemblance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resemblance. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

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