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

Examples 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 Working across opera, theatre, film, music was very inspiring and that broadened my knowledge of various art forms. Annika Pham, Variety, 7 Jan. 2025 While the singer’s solo career has been growing over the course of the last several months, her collaborative ventures with various fashion brands has grown as well. Julia Teti, WWD, 7 Jan. 2025 Some people who are living with various other conditions could be more prone to pulmonary issues or various cancers, for example. Brian Mastroianni, Health, 7 Jan. 2025 Eventually, those rights coalesced under the Conan Doyle Estate Ltd., which is overseen by various family members. Alec Nevala-Lee, The Atlantic, 7 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for various 

Thesaurus Entries Near various

Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 21 Jan. 2025.

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