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 In conversation with my friends, the stories had amazing similarities — fathers separated from their children under challenging circumstances. Nia Bowers, USA Today, 7 July 2026 All told, there were a few similarities between last weekend’s British GP and the 2021 Abu Dhabi 2021. Alex Kalinauckas, New York Times, 7 July 2026 Directional similarity is not the same as individual prediction or even the same answers. Cynthia Vega, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 Admitted differences of that kind cannot satisfy the substantial-similarity standard. Chris Willman, Variety, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for similarity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for similarity
resemblance
Noun
  • Gomez's wedding guest dress also bore a striking resemblance to her 2025 Oscars dress, a custom off-the-shoulder piece by Ralph Lauren.
    Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 5 July 2026
  • This airy maxi dress bears a striking resemblance to the one Karen Allen wore in Raiders of the Lost Ark, which just happens to be one of my favorite movie costumes of all time.
    Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 4 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Similarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/similarity. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

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