divergent

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of divergent are different, disparate, diverse, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation.

went on to pursue divergent careers

When would different be a good substitute for divergent?

While the synonyms different and divergent are close in meaning, different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

different foods

When might disparate be a better fit than divergent?

The meanings of disparate and divergent largely overlap; however, disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When is diverse a more appropriate choice than divergent?

The words diverse and divergent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

Where would various be a reasonable alternative to divergent?

The synonyms various and divergent are sometimes interchangeable, but various stresses the number of sorts or kinds.

tried various methods

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 divergent Various theoretical, even divergent, details have been posited regarding the project — a period vampire thriller, a helicopter action thriller — but insiders maintain that nothing has come close to nailing Nolan’s real idea. Borys Kit, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 Nov. 2024 In its final installment, built around an interview with Zimbardo and a reunion of the inmates and guards, the series attempts to synthesize their divergent perspectives. Judy Berman, TIME, 29 Nov. 2024 These divergent growth rates — possibly due to differing customer demographics — have led to very different valuations. Michael Khouw, CNBC, 25 Nov. 2024 Our colleagues have divergent and equally passionate views across a range of issues. Isla Binnie, USA TODAY, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for divergent 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for divergent
Adjective
  • The need for innovative and comprehensive solutions that alleviate the stress around planning, packing, labeling, traveling, and settling is evident, especially with the average American moving 11.7 times in a lifetime – every instance posing different challenges.
    Kyle J. Russell, USA TODAY, 17 Dec. 2024
  • The 2025 class will pursue their studies at 13 different institutions across the UK, ranging from Oxford, Cambridge and Edinburgh, to the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
    Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Use handwritten envelopes or add festive elements, like wax seals or sparkling liners, for a refined and distinctive look.
    Felicity Carter, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024
  • Police released several images of the shooter in which he can be seen wearing a dark-colored jacket with a hood over his head, a black facemask, black-and-white sneakers and a distinctive gray backpack.
    Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 6 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • For this story to land, Silo 17 needed to feel distinct from Juliette’s home while belonging to the same basic world.
    Mark Blankenship, IndieWire, 7 Dec. 2024
  • Like Macao, Hong Kong is considered a special administrative region of China, partly distinct from the mainland.
    Simone McCarthy, CNN, 6 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Six diverse political and ethnic groups now claim territory.
    Robin Wright, The New Yorker, 15 Dec. 2024
  • From the tranquil beaches of the Maldives to the vibrant cultural landscape of Bhutan, these destinations offer a diverse range of experiences that go beyond a typical vacation.
    Jennifer Kester, Forbes, 15 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near divergent

Cite this Entry

“Divergent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/divergent. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on divergent

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