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 So Hendon collaborated with volcanologists Josef Dufek and Joshua Méndez Harper, who were regulars at the same local coffee house and had noted striking similarities between the science of coffee and plumes of volcanic ash, magma, and water. ArsTechnica, 28 Apr. 2026 Downs sat down with the veterans to hear about their journeys while talking about the similarities between the NFL and the military. Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Apr. 2026 McClay said their new Lawrence has some similarities to former Cowboys edge rusher DeMarcus Lawrence. Jon MacHota, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026 Others note visual similarities in earlier media, including a scene in Jean-Luc Godard’s 1960 film Breathless where characters appear to perform a similar gesture. Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 27 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for similarity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for similarity
resemblance
Noun
  • For all their grievances with Didion’s fiction, the women’s lives bear a striking resemblance to Didion’s own.
    Maddie Connors, Los Angeles Times, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Most of the film’s other resemblances, of which there are many, prove less distressing.
    David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 28 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Similarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/similarity. Accessed 5 May. 2026.

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