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 Roberts knew her team was going to be in for a challenge because of similarities in style of play between the two teams. John W. Davis, Oc Register, 27 May 2025 An organization that searched Omaha Beach in 1946 found a set of remains with similarities to Andrews in 1946, but no positive identification was made at the time. Brett Barrouquere, Arkansas Online, 26 May 2025 Many participants with conflicting ideologies also reported cohabiting peacefully for the most part, while being careful not to bring up divisive topics and focus on their similarities instead. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 25 May 2025 An important point of similarity in both genres is their focus on women. Ali Farahmand, IndieWire, 23 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for similarity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for similarity
resemblance
Noun
  • For a royal family that has often been criticized for being out of touch, this is a great look, and proof that perhaps William’s resemblance to his mother goes beyond his features.
    Lissete Lanuza Sáenz, StyleCaster, 2 June 2025
  • New York’s start bears resemblance to the 2023 Aces.
    Sabreena Merchant, New York Times, 2 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Similarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/similarity. Accessed 14 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on similarity

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!