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

Bert McCarty, a Clemson University professor of turfgrass science and management, said golfers like how top courses are so different — from incorporating the ocean in places near beaches to relying on inclines in the mountains.

— ABC News, ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026
The tour, which began in 1999, showcases Slamdance titles to different audiences around the country, expanding their reach beyond the traditional film hubs of Los Angeles and New York.

— Savannah Sicurella, AJC.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Definition of different

Adjective

But a single letter can’t capture everyone’s experience all of the time – let alone a $31 trillion economy that is the biggest and most diverse in the world.

— David Goldman, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026
An influx of younger and diverse candidates (of little interest to big donors who prefer savvy incumbents) ran and won.

— Elona Vaisnys, Hartford Courant, 9 Aug. 2026

Definition of diverse

Adjective

Even before the war, the country had already developed a large legal profession, sophisticated corporate firms, and distinctive constitutional institutions, although European legal systems retained greater intellectual prestige.

— Mark Jia, Foreign Affairs, 7 Aug. 2026
The label’s mission emphasizes distinctive creative voices and stories that defy genre convention.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 7 Aug. 2026

Definition of distinctive

Adjective

While the precise number of brokers managed by each service varies, there are some distinct differences.

— Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 5 Aug. 2026
Researchers looked at differences between the modern human and Neanderthal genomes and identified distinct genetic changes in Neanderthals’ growth hormone receptor—a key cell protein that helps regulate growth throughout the body.

— Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 5 Aug. 2026

Definition of distinct

Adjective

The service Casually buttoned-up and (like many other things at this property) classic New York, with concierge and servers always ready to lend a hand—but without fussing over anything.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Aug. 2026
While plenty of chic boots are obviously on her radar, her seasonal collection includes a range of other styles, too, like sneakers, loafers, and flats.

— Isabel Bekele, InStyle, 5 Aug. 2026