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 There have been board fights and legal battles to determine which of Jerry’s heirs would take the lead, with various siblings holding the upper hand at certain points. Erik Hayden, HollywoodReporter, 17 Aug. 2026 Even traditional recipes from one city can be interpreted immeasurable ways by various families. Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 17 Aug. 2026 Under that tie-up, the companies are experimenting with drone delivery in various Dallas-Fort Worth-area markets. Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 17 Aug. 2026 After various firings and lawsuits involving her brothers, Jeanie’s brothers facilitated her own exit. Mark Medina, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for various
Recent Examples of Synonyms for various
Adjective
  • Pay attention to ordinary pleasures, like a warm bed on a cold night, a good cup of coffee, or a brightly colored bird outside the window.
    Angela Haupt, Time, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Oyster shells—colored brown, gray, or white externally—have the roughest texture of the three bivalves.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Portuguese touches are incorporated here too; the blanket on the bed comes from Burel and is made using wool from Serra de Estrela sheep into colorful, contemporary designs.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Aug. 2026
  • But the city of Smyrna is trying to change that, turning some of those refrigerator-sized metal cabinets into colorful works of public art.
    Brian Unger, CBS News, 20 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The varied multi-pool complex with a firepit anchors the property with appealing amenities for every age.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Its 1,300-plus acres encompass hardwood forests, native grasslands, mature pecan groves, and seven miles of trails that wind through the varied terrain.
    Tori Latham, Robb Report, 17 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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