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 Among other things, the bill sought to mandate clearer labelling for guardrail parts, and to require that manufacturers distribute setup manuals in various languages, including Spanish. Charles Bethea, New Yorker, 20 July 2026 In various stories, the transformation step can often be fantastical, such as when a superhero gains new powers. Emma Gometz, Scientific American, 20 July 2026 While various global universities have successfully experimented with this concept over the years, a new study from China has reportedly showcased a low-cost chemical method. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 20 July 2026 This article was created by content specialists using various tools, including AI. Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 14 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for various
Recent Examples of Synonyms for various
Adjective
  • White wines might look more yellow, or reds may be brick-colored or brownish.
    Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 20 July 2026
  • The dark-colored wash is a nice, polished touch—even with their relaxed silhouette, and midriff bearing rise.
    Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 18 July 2026
Adjective
  • The atmosphere may seem a little less colorful and little less festive.
    Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026
  • Farris' depictions – drawn in a loose, minimal style with a bright, colorful palette – offer generalities that seem relatable for those who have attended med school.
    Tahneer Oksman, NPR, 23 July 2026
Adjective
  • To find out, Ars analyzed how the prices of 19 current top-selling PlayStation games varied between digital downloads and physical discs (both new and used).
    Kyle Orland, ArsTechnica, 20 July 2026
  • This model introduces a Range Extender (REEV) variant alongside BEV options, to address varied charging infrastructure and electricity costs outside China.
    James Morris, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.

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