disparate

adjective

ˈdi-sp(ə-)rət How to pronounce disparate (audio)
Definition of disparatenext
as in diverse
being not of the same kind disparate notions among adults and adolescents about when middle age begins

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 Although manufacturing and purchasing less is the most sustainable route available in terms of skincare and cosmetics, there are more brands than ever before working to better align the industry’s, at times, disparate goals. —Calin Van Paris, Outside Online, 6 July 2025 Most old towns are singular districts, but Tokyo’s historic streetscape survives in disparate pockets, defined by narrow, winding alleys of two-story homes and workshops that lack gardens or other buffer zones between building and street. —Jessica Kozuka, Travel + Leisure, 6 July 2025 Existing law prohibits against both intentional and disparate impact discrimination, which refers to discrimination that occurs as a result of a neutral appearing policy, even if it’s not intended. —Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 5 July 2025 Yet, so often AI can falter because bringing together disparate, siloed functions is a complex challenge. —Paul Saunders, Forbes.com, 3 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for disparate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disparate
  1. diverse
  2. different
  3. distinctive
  4. distinct
Adjective
  • But with over 200 wineries, the Old North State is steadily transforming into one of the country’s most exciting and diverse wine states.
    — Claire Volkman, Travel + Leisure, 25 July 2025
  • After losing her teaching job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lê leaned fully into her content, collaborating with publishers, monetizing lesson plans through platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers, and building a business focused on diverse and inclusive book collections.
    — Alejandra Rojas, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
Definition of diverse
Adjective
  • And in a different carousel of photos, which Justin shared on Friday, the singer once again cozied up to his wife, wrapping his arms around her in what appeared to be candid shots.
    — Bailey Richards, People.com, 27 July 2025
  • The Enquirer tried to contact ICE spokespeople via two different emails, separately contacted the Detroit field office, and requested any reports related to the alleged prank.
    — Victoria Moorwood, The Enquirer, 27 July 2025
Definition of different
Adjective
  • The country has a low cost of living, a low crime rate and distinctive cuisine.
    — William P. Barrett, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025
  • Meeting space, which is also popular for weddings, is another distinctive amenity.
    — Paul Brady, Travel + Leisure, 19 July 2025
Definition of distinctive
Adjective
  • Literature has a distinct ability to illuminate truth’s multiplicities; writers like Ullmann remind readers that fact and fiction are fragile categories, and that collapsing them can yield enthralling results.
    — Rachel Vorona Cote, The Atlantic, 15 July 2025
  • Today, over 3 in 5 cannabis consumers are aware of terpenes: organic compounds present in plants, fungi and cannabis, and are responsible for distinct scents, flavors and therapeutic effects.
    — Peter Su, Rolling Stone, 15 July 2025
Definition of distinct

Browse Nearby Words

disparagingly
disparate
disparateness
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Cite this Entry

“Disparate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disparate. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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