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 In previous slow starts to games this season, various phases of MU’s attack (offense, defense, special teams) picked each other up. — Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 17 Oct. 2026 There are some organizing things that happen, but most of the money is various versions of advertising. — Jacob Brogan, Vox, 17 Oct. 2026 Arden wouldn’t disclose which ones would feature, but various accounts by fashion publications previously reported that Winehouse also wore Alien by Thierry Mugler, Vera Wang Princess, and Givenchy’s Hot Couture. — Hikmat Mohammed, ARTnews.com, 10 Oct. 2026 Its slate pairs four features, all set for release in 2027, with three long-form TV dramas at various stages of production. — Ophélie Surcouf, Variety, 10 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for various
Recent Examples of Synonyms for various
Adjective
  • Vivier’s signature buckle can be rendered in gold or silver, with colored brass available on select styles.
    — Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026
  • Its cyan-colored vehicles will compete with Ubers, Lyfts and autonomous taxis to shuttle customers across busy streets and freeways.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 13 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Frosted glass walls reveal a garden of oversize, colorful leather flowers, while wood and leather, recurring materials in Polène’s stores, appear in the furnishings.
    — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Other suites are even more striking, covered from head to toe in a flora wallpaper and bright, colorful custom furniture.
    — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 15 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The allegations are wide-ranging, varied and horrific, and Brand will have the chance to defend himself likely in a few weeks’ time.
    — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 16 Oct. 2026
  • The destinations varied, but both trips gave these women the rare pleasure of having their wishes shape the experiences—and allowed their daughters to know them in a new way.
    — Jenn Sinrich, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 18 Oct. 2026.

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