dissimilar 1 of 2

adjective

(ˌ)di(s)-ˈsi-mə-lər How to pronounce dissimilar (audio)
Definition of dissimilarnext
as in different
being not of the same kind a place where people with dissimilar backgrounds can interact

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

dissimilarity

2 of 2

noun

(ˌ)di(s)-ˌsi-mə-ˈler-ə-tē How to pronounce dissimilarity (audio)
as in difference
the quality or state of being different the effectiveness of a metaphor largely depends upon the superficial dissimilarity of the two things being compared

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 dissimilar
Adjective
This isn’t dissimilar to Indian classical music, where notes are divided by 22 instead of 12. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 10 June 2026 Ament didn’t quite reach his offensive potential at Tennessee, but this is not dissimilar to the gamble the Bucks once took on a young Antetokounmpo. — Rohan Nadkarni, NBC news, 24 June 2026
Noun
Obviously, the dissimilarity between being directed by her and being technically a co-star of her is kind of getting to engage with her brilliance on multifacets. — Glenn Garner, Deadline, 27 Feb. 2026 Their results support the hypothesis that limiting trait similarity allows the establishment of non-native parakeets at the local scale by reducing competition with native species due to trait dissimilarity. — Grrlscientist, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dissimilar
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dissimilar
  1. different
  2. diverse
  3. distinctive
  4. distinct
Adjective
  • As the match enters a hydration break, Austria — which has already gone for broke with four substitutions this half — will have to try something different to rally.
    — Ashley Mowreader, NBC news, 3 July 2026
  • Researchers then move the ion to different locations above the chip by adjusting voltages on the trap electrodes.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 3 July 2026
Definition of different
Adjective
  • The market sees diverse approaches from infrastructure, authorization, and security vendors, alongside consolidation through acquisitions and open-source initiatives.
    — Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026
  • The Adayar Eco Park, a green lung that hugs an estuary, is nearby and worth a visit for its diverse flora and fauna.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026
Definition of diverse
Adjective
  • Tabby coated cats have a distinctive 'M'-shaped mark on their foreheads.
    — Madeline Gunderson, USA Today, 5 July 2026
  • The restaurants are also rated highly for their traditional chile relleno and for the distinctive fish or shrimp tacos with chipotle sauce and mango pico de gallo.
    — Bud Kennedy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 July 2026
Definition of distinctive
Adjective
  • Honda's vehicles feature a distinct design language and identity that evolves without deviating from the brand's ethos.
    — Charles Singh, USA Today, 2 July 2026
  • Each of them hold their own distinct style and personality, with something for everyone, not just in the glass, but in the atmosphere.
    — Brad Japhe, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Definition of distinct

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dissimilar
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Cite this Entry

“Dissimilar.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dissimilar. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on dissimilar

Nglish: Translation of dissimilar for Spanish Speakers

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