UNLIKE Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

unlike

adjective

ˌən-ˈlīk

Definition of unlike

as in different

being not of the same kind you're trying to compare very unlike things—like those proverbial apples and oranges

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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 unlike Or the move could have been to help the calf stay afloat—unlike adults, young sperm whales tend to sink and need to swim harder to reach the surface to breathe. — Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 26 Mar. 2026 Extreme cold is especially dangerous for donkeys because unlike horses, donkeys don’t have the natural oils in their coats that repel moisture, Vargas said. — Elissa Jorgensen, Dallas Morning News, 26 Jan. 2026 What’s more, plastic—unlike glass and aluminum—loses its functionality when it’s recycled. — Judith Enck, Time, 1 Dec. 2025 But unlike diamonds, where the molecular structure is extremely compact, Robson’s material contained a huge number of large cavities, suggesting this could lead to the creation of new materials. — Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unlike

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unlike

Adjective

With Taylor trying to show different looks on offense, Burrow was under center on the first four plays and seven overall.

— CBS News, CBS News, 14 Aug. 2026
Many different clubs have considered moves for the rangy midfielder over the years, and Atletico came closest to signing him in summer 2024.

— Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of different

Adjective

The Angle Wedge Pillow's distinctive triangular shape cradles your legs and knees at a precise 45-degree angle to relieve tension in your back, while the Knee-T keeps legs, hips and spine in a neutral position to reduce pressure on your lower back.

— ABC News, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026
Xerjoff’s distinctive flacon is bathed in three dynamic colors that boldly represent Lamborghini’s super sports cars.

— Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 15 Aug. 2026

Definition of distinctive

Adjective

In a news release shared Tuesday, Verizon said that service interruptions affected people across Los Angeles County and other parts of the region after vandals cut multiple fiber cables.

— Dean Fioresi, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026
Since Covid-19, average revenues among the ‘Big Six’ have increased by £189million, more than three times the increase at other Premier League clubs.

— Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 12 Aug. 2026