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 Flags with different colors are used to warn beachgoers of various hazards. ABC News, 24 June 2026 In 2022, Ada County alone collected $735 million in property tax for distribution to various taxing districts, according to the county. Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 24 June 2026 The musician shared his health update across various social-media platforms and didn’t specify any reason for the procedure. Devon Ivie, Vulture, 24 June 2026 All three frames come in various colors and lenses and are currently for sale. Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for various
Recent Examples of Synonyms for various
Adjective
  • Enjoy caramel-colored foliage in spring and fall and pink blooms throughout summer that attract pollinators.
    Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 June 2026
  • Squeezits No '90s lunch box felt complete without a brightly colored bottle of Squeezits.
    Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • Bringing new teenage characters into the Factory, with Kit Connor already announced as lead voice cast, the film appears to be a fast-paced, thrilling and colorful adventure for young audiences, and got enthusiastic feedback from Annecy’s crowds.
    Kevin Giraud, Variety, 24 June 2026
  • Lasichanh sported colorful sneakers for her footwear, carried a small Louis Vuitton bag and wore delicate jewelry pieces to complete her casually bent attire.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • The return on investment varied widely by major, from a high of $204,686 for engineering and architecture degrees to a low of $35,410 for liberal arts.
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • Projections varied in the weeks leading up to the draft with no real consensus among draft analysts, but in the last 24 hours there were strong indications the Clippers would choose Wagler and the Nets would take Brown.
    Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

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