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 Since 2013, Moore has worked as the Dolphins’ senior vice president of special projects and alumni relations, helping former players stay connected with the team as well as assisting Dolphins Vice Chairman, President and CEO Tom Garfinkel with various programs. C. Isaiah Smalls Ii, Miami Herald, 19 May 2025 The studios’ dollars currently go further overseas due to various lucrative tax incentives. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 5 May 2025 This analysis of an innovative AI breakthrough is part of my ongoing Forbes column coverage on the latest in AI, including identifying and explaining various impactful AI complexities (see the link here). Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025 Diddy plea deal denied, Cassie video to be allowed as evidence In the lead-up to the May 5 start date, attorneys for the prosecution and the defense have been in court for pretrial hearings to discuss various procedural matters. Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 4 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for various
Recent Examples of Synonyms for various
Adjective
  • Alternatives, a varied category of assets beyond traditional equities and bonds, can significantly enhance portfolio resilience and growth.
    Fred Hubler, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
  • CrossFit is based on the philosophy that constantly varied movements performed with moderate intensity improve physical competence.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 12 May 2025
Adjective
  • Grief has grayed-out her love for colorful creation.
    Lorraine Berry, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2025
  • At the end of a Monday morning meeting, realtors lined up to spin a colorful wheel to earn prizes, such as money for gas or Starbucks.
    Abigail Hasebroock, Sun Sentinel, 8 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

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