Definition of similaritynext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word similarity distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of similarity are analogy, likeness, resemblance, and similitude. While all these words mean "agreement or correspondence in details," 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 could analogy be used to replace similarity?

In some situations, the words analogy and similarity are roughly equivalent. However, analogy implies likeness or parallelism in relations rather than in appearance or qualities.

pointed out analogies to past wars

Where would resemblance be a reasonable alternative to similarity?

The words resemblance and similarity can be used in similar contexts, but resemblance implies similarity chiefly in appearance or external qualities.

statements that bear little resemblance to the truth

In what contexts can similitude take the place of similarity?

While in some cases nearly identical to similarity, 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 similarity The killings of Goncalves, Mogen, Kernodle, and Chapin bore some similarities to a series of murders committed by Rolling in 1990. Britt Hayes, Entertainment Weekly, 30 July 2026 As Pakistan descends into crisis, Zakir recognizes disturbing similarities between 1947 and 1971—crowds assembling, slogans spreading, cities burning, and familiar places becoming strange. Encyclopedia Britannica, 29 July 2026 And before anyone starts making comparisons to Liam Neeson’s Taken, suffice it to say that the similarities don’t extend far beyond the premise and its universal theme of fatherly love. Regina Kim, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 Simon Vigar examined how the Suits star has some major similarities to her late mother-in-law Princess Diana in a new book. Lara Walsh, InStyle, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for similarity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for similarity
resemblance
Noun
  • The hair and makeup teams emphasize Wilde’s resemblance to those old school maneaters while keeping her look cutting-edge.
    Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 30 July 2026
  • While Viking sagas mention rhythmic chants to aid oarsmen, the dramatic, coordinated movements seen today bear little resemblance to actual Viking rowing techniques.
    Bailey Berg, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Similarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/similarity. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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