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 comic spent some minutes zooming in on and squinting at the photo, putting his hand on his head to ascertain the resemblance. Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 13 Apr. 2026 But when does this resemblance come to pass? Konstantin Kakaes, Quanta Magazine, 13 Apr. 2026 Fans who were lucky enough to snag an order were struck by the uncanny resemblance to a real drumstick. Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 11 Apr. 2026 The silhouette, handwoven design, and straps all boast a striking resemblance to the Bottega Veneta version. Megan Schaltegger, PEOPLE, 11 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for resemblance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resemblance
similarity
Noun
  • Magyar’s most disturbing similarity with Orbán is his personality.
    Kapil Komireddi, New Yorker, 10 Apr. 2026
  • Arthur is living for the likes, his suburban house of horrors happening to bear similarities to the anonymous McMansions preferred by so many influencers.
    Alison Willmore, Vulture, 10 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resemblance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resemblance. Accessed 20 Apr. 2026.

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