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

After airing a 19th season that limped its way to the finish line, Bravo probably should have tried something a little different for the next one.

— Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 31 July 2026
In the comics, Battleworld stitched together all the different worlds and plopped every hero and their variant into one new universe.

— Jordan Moreau, Variety, 31 July 2026

Definition of different

Adjective

Is Little Feat the most influential American rock band that never achieved mainstream success, in large part because its music was simply too diverse and good to make major commercial inroads?

— George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Aug. 2026
So part of the challenge is to build a structure that tamps down the diverse risks to our lives and livelihoods and create a greater opening for these positive local trends to grow and fluorish on the national and international level.

— William Hartung, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026

Definition of diverse

Adjective

Night after night, Swift would perform for more than three hours, running back her career one era at a time, each one its own world with distinctive sets, costumes, and colors.

— Mitch Therieau, New Yorker, 1 Aug. 2026
Trademark law protects distinctive brand identifiers—like words and symbols—that tell the public exactly who is behind a product.

— Ashlee Difuntorum, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of distinctive

Adjective

The result is an oyster with a distinct earthy brine and mild sweetness, less salty than its East Coast cousins, and with a plump, meaty bite.

— Gabi De la Rosa, Southern Living, 29 July 2026
Food and drink The hotel runs four dining venues plus a poolside bar, all of which have distinct identities, styles, and vibes.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 July 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