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 But different demographic and political groups have divergent views on the topics companies should focus on. David Hessekiel, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024 Hostility to divergent views has infected many American institutions, from corporations and nonprofits to the media and government agencies. William Cooper, Orlando Sentinel, 6 Dec. 2024 Different families experience the holiday at divergent times at the same location, all learning unexpected lessons about life. Lisa Stardust, People.com, 4 Dec. 2024 Mace’s version of events is wildly divergent from what has been described by others who attended the reception on Tuesday. Samantha Riedel, Them, 11 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for divergent 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for divergent
Adjective
  • There’s room to coexist because Hollywood delivers different content, but caution remains about what will and will not work.
    Nancy Tartaglione, Deadline, 15 Jan. 2025
  • Although several different Russian ‘Baba Yaga clones’ have been demonstrated, these do not seem to have reached the front.
    David Hambling, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The region's diverse geology and dry climate contribute significantly to its wines’ distinctive characteristics.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025
  • Tuxedo cats, like Milo, are not a specific breed but rather felines with a distinctive black-and-white coat pattern resembling formal wear.
    Lydia Patrick, Newsweek, 7 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • After the deal closes, the company will continue to offer both Hulu + Live TV and Fubo under distinct brands, with Hulu continuing to be available in the larger Disney bundle.
    Alex Weprin, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 Jan. 2025
  • Different groups have distinct dialects, with trills varying by length and frequency.
    Jessica Camille Aguirre, Smithsonian Magazine, 6 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Altadena, a diverse working-class community in Los Angeles County, is a far cry from the more renowned Pasadena, its neighbor directly north, and the nearby and more glitzy and wealthy Pacific Palisades neighborhood in LA.
    Andrea Riquier, USA TODAY, 14 Jan. 2025
  • Reed said the military is both more diverse than ever before and more lethal than it's ever been.
    Barbara Sprunt, NPR, 14 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near divergent

Cite this Entry

“Divergent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/divergent. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on divergent

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