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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Mike Coppola | Getty Images Rare Ventures will initially focus on funding the development of new treatments for seven different rare conditions.

— Brad Quick, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
His October episode with Hailey Bieber also comes to mind — in a different way.

— Julia Moore, PEOPLE, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of different

Adjective

This reframes California's economic health, highlighting a vibrant, diverse entrepreneurial spirit that continues to shine.

— Lisa Curtis, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026
But a new study has found reliable evidence that this formative process involved more diverse species also making the transition.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 30 Aug. 2026

Definition of diverse

Adjective

These challenging conditions are precisely what make a summer off-road safari such a distinctive way to experience Iceland’s rugged interior.

— Gwen Nicol, Travel + Leisure, 29 Aug. 2026
Meghna Gulzar has a very distinctive voice and an ability to approach difficult subjects with both restraint and intensity.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of distinctive

Adjective

Lee said her ultimate vision is to use BodyCodes to filter search results for the user, so she will only be served jeans from brands that fit her distinct shape.

— Roy Stephen Canivel, Footwear News, 26 Aug. 2026
Tel-Rea, the Jedi character, is almost entirely melee-focused, but comes with her own entirely distinct skills and combat abilities, essentially requiring you to build your party around her.

— Hayes Madsen, Space.com, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of distinct

Adjective

People can lose weight because of cancer, heart disease and other illnesses.

— Faye Chiu, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2026
Among other packaging tweaks, the 3-ounce and 8-ounce mists, as well as the 8-ounce wash, now use custom bottles that were developed specifically for this line.

— Kathryn Hopkins, Footwear News, 26 Aug. 2026