Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of diverse are different, disparate, divergent, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

When would different be a good substitute for diverse?

The words different and diverse 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 disparate instead of diverse?

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

disparate notions of freedom

Where would divergent be a reasonable alternative to diverse?

Although the words divergent and diverse 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 might various be a better fit than diverse?

In some situations, the words various and diverse are roughly equivalent. However, 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 diverse The one-mile stroll to the water is through a diverse residential area with homes from old bungalows to modern structures. Kathryn Streeter, USA Today, 30 Oct. 2025 Taneka’s commitment to showcasing diverse models challenges the fashion industry’s exclusivity while directly supporting Tampa families in need. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 29 Oct. 2025 Local forests are growing shadier, denser and diverse. Sophie Hartley, IndyStar, 29 Oct. 2025 Mayer emphasized the importance of embracing diverse friendships without reducing them to stereotypes. Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for diverse
Recent Examples of Synonyms for diverse
Adjective
  • The characters are all different, but the contrast in personalities was similar.
    Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 31 Oct. 2025
  • Lee made a video about the clear-shoe trend, adopted by the likes of Simone Rocha and Loewe for spring 2026; Loewe layered socks of different colors with transparent kitten heels.
    Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 31 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Each of these titles represents a distinctive cinematic vision — works that captivate with their visual language, emotional depth, and masterful craftsmanship.
    Zac Ntim, Deadline, 29 Oct. 2025
  • Dry lower-leg skin in African-American women is distinctive for its downregulation of several free fatty acids.
    Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harpers Magazine, 29 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The Maserati GranTurismo Folgore's exterior is distinct and aggressive.
    Charles Singh, USA Today, 2 Nov. 2025
  • Gold sought to make a similar point with Fuji – an album named for a distinct genre from Nigeria’s Yourba ethnic group that critics like Zikoko’s Tomide Marv have since claimed is largely absent from its tracklist.
    Mankaprr Conteh, Rolling Stone, 2 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • These varied global efforts are helping to define technical standards, cost models, and business cases for dynamic electric road systems, with induction being one of several competing technologies (others include ground-rails and overhead power supply).
    Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025
  • By considering the varied needs of different users, Ausom designs its scooters to adapt to a range of real-world scenarios—whether for daily commuting, longer-distance travel, or occasional recreational use.
    Matt Emma, USA Today, 24 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Diverse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/diverse. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on diverse

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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