Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective similar contrast with its synonyms?

The words analogous and parallel are common synonyms of similar. While all three words mean "closely resembling each other," similar implies the possibility of being mistaken for each other.

all the houses in the development are similar

When can analogous be used instead of similar?

The synonyms analogous and similar are sometimes interchangeable, but analogous applies to things belonging in essentially different categories but nevertheless having many similarities.

analogous political systems

In what contexts can parallel take the place of similar?

While the synonyms parallel and similar are close in meaning, parallel suggests a marked likeness in the development of two things.

the parallel careers of two movie stars

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 similar Vionic Rosa Strappy Sandals These gold sandals have a similar vibe to Stewart’s, thanks to woven straps and platform soles. Jamie Allison Sanders, People.com, 12 June 2025 If a deal does sell out, there's a high chance another store will be offering a similar or matching discount. Louryn Strampe, Wired News, 12 June 2025 The following Naperville residents have completed college/university degrees or have been named to their school’s dean’s list, honor roll or similar academic achievement list. Names, degrees and honors appear below as provided by the respective schools. Naperville Sun, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2025 They were also dismayed by a joint budget agreement unveiled by lawmakers earlier this week, which includes similar — though lighter — Medi-Cal cost-cutting measures: $30 premiums and an enrollment freeze beginning in July 2027. Nicole Nixon, Sacbee.com, 12 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for similar
Recent Examples of Synonyms for similar
Adjective
  • Beyond this, the study also showed that owning a dog, or even a cat, significantly boosts human life satisfaction and well-being, to a degree comparable to the impact of family and friends.
    Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 June 2025
  • Our concern with this umbrella is that the materials seem slightly more cheaply made and less durable than comparable models.
    Sandi Schwartz, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 June 2025
Adjective
  • In our model, the flow of traffic over a network of roads is analogous to the flow of fluids over a surface—motions that are governed by the laws of fluid dynamics.
    Steve Nadis, Wired News, 1 June 2025
  • What remain enduringly relevant are the book’s insights into the nature of design innovation, which Jencks described as analogous to biological evolution, a constant flow of emergent, divergent, and convergent streams.
    Glenn Adamson, Artforum, 1 June 2025
Adjective
  • Why Open Networks Make Sense Supply chains are deeply complex, and no two systems are alike.
    Shekar Natarajan, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025
  • Adaptability Is Key No two performances are alike because no two audiences are alike.
    Dr. Jen Donnell, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The outlet was able to locate an original photo of one such booth from the era, which entailed White contestants throwing objects at the head of a Black boy for prizes.
    Toria Sheffield, People.com, 8 June 2025
  • Erecting mitigation barricades is the only answer to such determined ransomware actors.
    Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Similar.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/similar. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on similar

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!