Definition of similarnext

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 The paper’s star columnist, Mike Royko, who had made a similar move three years before, was happy to have her. Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2026 Still, the system can occasionally trap the wrong animal, such as box turtles, which have a similar coloring to a tegu. Laurie Mermet, Sun Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2026 Conditions at similar holding rooms in San Francisco were challenged in a recent lawsuit, and the agency was ordered by a federal judge to improve conditions and reduce the length of time that people were kept there. Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 30 July 2026 For young people with similar ambitions, live entertainment could be a smart path to follow. Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for similar
Recent Examples of Synonyms for similar
Adjective
  • In an exchange relationship, benefits are given with the expectation of comparable repayment; in a communal one, they’re given in response to need, on the assumption that care flows both ways over time.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Experts point out that there are no known examples of this sort of clothing in comparable sculptures from Anatolia or mainland Greece, so the garb reflects a local tradition distinct to the ancient kingdom of Lydia.
    Brian Boucher, ARTnews.com, 4 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Fulton sees it as analogous to the insight embedded in a Visa network but reaching deeper into people's financial lives.
    Peter High, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026
  • The companies describe the technology as analogous to Global Entry for international travelers, in that pre-verified goods move through compliance checks faster because customs isn’t starting a full risk review every time.
    Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 24 July 2026
Adjective
  • America's most affluent suburbs are more alike than different.
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 4 July 2026
  • According to author Caroline Hallemann—whose book The Kennedys and the Windsors came out on June 2—the two women were even more alike than meets the eye.
    Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 9 June 2026
Adjective
  • Later on Friday, Infantino said the plan was to strengthen such bodies, not divide world soccer.
    Dennis Romero, NBC news, 1 Aug. 2026
  • However, many states still require such reporting, and lawyers advise companies to continue collecting this data voluntarily to avoid future legal issues.
    Janice Gassam Asare, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Similar.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/similar. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on similar

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster