Definition of variousnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word various different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of various are different, disparate, divergent, and diverse. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," various stresses the number of sorts or kinds.

tried various methods

When could different be used to replace various?

While the synonyms different and various are close in meaning, different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

different foods

When is it sensible to use disparate instead of various?

The synonyms disparate and various are sometimes interchangeable, but disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When would divergent be a good substitute for various?

Although the words divergent and various have much in common, divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation.

went on to pursue divergent careers

When is diverse a more appropriate choice than various?

In some situations, the words diverse and various are roughly equivalent. However, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

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 various Eventually, Beijing folds various commercial projects within a country into formal cooperation agreements with that state’s government. Natalia Cote-Muñoz, Foreign Affairs, 3 Aug. 2026 Featuring various pumpkin-forward combinations and other decadent fall flavors, these autumnal treats are perfect for this time of year. Molly Burford, Southern Living, 3 Aug. 2026 The announcement follows similar action taken by workers at various branches of the V&A Museum in London, who voted to strike over pay, working conditions, and the institution’s refusal to seek living wage accreditation. News Desk, Artforum, 3 Aug. 2026 Tulu is taught in educational institutions in Karnataka, and various organizations continue to advocate for its preservation and inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. Andrew Pereira, Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for various
Recent Examples of Synonyms for various
Adjective
  • Rows of amber colored pill bottles fill the wall behind a pharmacist who prepares 1,200 medications a day – more than some New York City children’s hospitals.
    Rachel Hale, USA Today, 4 Aug. 2026
  • My test car featured predominantly black seats with contrasting white trim and additional light-colored detailing throughout the cabin.
    Karl Brauer, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Nineteenth century Belgian crystal chandeliers and colorful glass lanterns adorn the sanctuary.
    ABC News, ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Its outdoor area is just as pretty, with colorful plants (a Judas tree, a Mount Etna Broom, roses, and jasmine) filling the garden.
    Katie Silcox, Vogue, 6 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Explanations for this varied among sources, and officially, Sotheby’s said they had been asked too late to do facilitate the sale, despite their initial acceptance.
    Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 3 Aug. 2026
  • The pairing of those two backs, plus the threat of Maiava’s legs, gives USC a varied backfield capable of breaking a big play at any moment.
    Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 3 Aug. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on various

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster