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 These images of Epstein after his death show similarities to images of him from a suicide attempt a month prior, and also images of him in 2004, 2013 and 2017. Layla Ferris, CBS News, 27 Feb. 2026 The bacteria that causes meningitis has significant genetic similarities with gonorrhea, so one approach to create a gonorrhea vaccine has been to adopt the meningococcal serogroup B (MenB) vaccine. Kenneth H. Mayer, STAT, 27 Feb. 2026 The family has 12 kids in both the movie and the book and that’s about where the similarities end. Caleb Harris, Austin American Statesman, 26 Feb. 2026 Despite surface-level similarities, Matyushev pushed back on the idea that JetZero is a direct competitor. Noelle Harff, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for similarity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for similarity
resemblance
Noun
  • If you've been convinced by one too many coffee shop pastry case items that scones bear some resemblance to hockey pucks, this Ina Garten recipe will likely inspire you to revise that reputation.
    Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Feb. 2026
  • During their search, the scientists caught a dozen minnows bearing a strong resemblance to the extinct Maluti redfin minnow.
    Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 25 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Similarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/similarity. Accessed 1 Mar. 2026.

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