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 Haim and her sisters are longtime friends of Swift’s and have collaborated on various musical projects. Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 19 Sep. 2026 During the trial, witnesses testified about handing Diamantis envelopes of cash at various locations, including a men's room at an upscale restaurant, a doughnut shop and his home. CBS News, 18 Sep. 2026 Its Asaya wellness concept comes with a full-size swimming pool and offers various dining options from Masayoshi Takayama’s Tobi Masa to New York cult favorite Carbone’s first outpost in London. Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 18 Sep. 2026 Those interested can meet for a continental breakfast before heading out to various agencies to serve. Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 18 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for various
Recent Examples of Synonyms for various
Adjective
  • There were beautiful boulevards, sweeping bridges over the Moskva River, wide Stalin-era avenues lined with imposing granite buildings, and quiet nineteenth-century neighborhoods of pastel-colored mansions.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Sep. 2026
  • Located within the historic Castle District, the area features cobbled streets, several museums, and the striking Matthias Church, which is known for its highly detailed, multi-colored interior décor.
    Lucy Handley, CNBC, 14 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • By the late 1960s, his portfolio included colorful posters and designs that appeared widely in popular culture, according to his official website.
    Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 17 Sep. 2026
  • The colorful soiree, which is entering its 42nd year, marks the end of carnival season and stretches over two weekends.
    Raisa Habersham, Miami Herald, 17 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The top is varied enough in design enough to wear with jeans, a skirt, or your favorite work trousers.
    Jessie Quinn, PEOPLE, 20 Sep. 2026
  • The reasons for the troubled funding landscape are varied and at times unclear, according to nearly two dozen fundraisers and organizers who spoke with the AP.
    ABC News, ABC News, 19 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 20 Sep. 2026.

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