Synonym Chooser

How is the word disparate different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of disparate are different, divergent, diverse, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When can different be used instead of disparate?

The words different and disparate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

different foods

When is it sensible to use divergent instead of disparate?

In some situations, the words divergent and disparate are roughly equivalent. However, divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation.

went on to pursue divergent careers

In what contexts can diverse take the place of disparate?

While the synonyms diverse and disparate are close in meaning, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

When could various be used to replace disparate?

While in some cases nearly identical to disparate, various stresses the number of sorts or kinds.

tried various methods

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 disparate The disunity mirrors a national Democratic identity crisis, as likely contenders for the 2028 presidential nomination are also employing disparate methods of dealing with Trump. Jessica Boehm, Axios, 25 Feb. 2025 The fascinating pairing of these two very disparate practices is exactly the kind of thing that makes Commonwealth and Council one of the city’s most important galleries. Maximilíano Durón, ARTnews.com, 19 Feb. 2025 Rankin’s mastery of tone throughout prevents any of these disparate elements from sticking out. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 14 Feb. 2025 Its two seemingly disparate female leads are centered to anchor the plot, which revolves around their tenacity and a high-dose of intuition. Holly Jones, Variety, 10 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for disparate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparate
Adjective
  • Mennonites are a diverse group of Christian denominations rooted in the Protestant Reformation who believe in a commitment to pacifism and nonresistance.
    Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 3 Mar. 2025
  • To increase access, liquid biopsies must perform consistently across diverse healthcare settings, from high-tech oncology centers to local clinics.
    Mariya Filipova, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Schenn’s situation, however, is a little different.
    Jeremy Rutherford, The Athletic, 5 Mar. 2025
  • Signing with the Giants to play and mentor Ward for a late-season or 2026 takeover would be much different than starting a few early games and then giving the keys to the kid to become a bystander.
    Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 4 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The price history reflects the challenges of finding a buyer for such a distinctive property.
    Matt Robison, Newsweek, 25 Feb. 2025
  • Now, scientists may have discovered the potential source of that distinctive coloring, overturning a popular theory in the process.
    Ashley Strickland, CNN, 25 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Resisting the label of fusion, Twitty describes the dish as an homage to flavors that highlights the intersections between distinct culinary traditions.
    Danielle Dorsey, Los Angeles Times, 23 Feb. 2025
  • This is classic mosaic evolution, where different parts of the anatomy evolve at distinct rates.
    Scott Travers, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Disparate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparate. Accessed 9 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on disparate

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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