likeness

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word likeness distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of likeness are analogy, resemblance, similarity, and similitude. While all these words mean "agreement or correspondence in details," likeness implies a closer correspondence than similarity which often implies that things are merely somewhat alike.

a remarkable likeness to his late father
some similarity between the two cases

When is it sensible to use analogy instead of likeness?

In some situations, the words analogy and likeness are roughly equivalent. However, analogy implies likeness or parallelism in relations rather than in appearance or qualities.

pointed out analogies to past wars

When is resemblance a more appropriate choice than likeness?

The words resemblance and likeness are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, resemblance implies similarity chiefly in appearance or external qualities.

statements that bear little resemblance to the truth

When can similitude be used instead of likeness?

The meanings of similitude and likeness largely overlap; however, similitude applies chiefly to correspondence between abstractions.

two schools of social thought showing points of similitude

Examples of likeness in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The similar likeness of Gali and Ziv Berman, 26-year-old twin brothers from Kfar Aza, is shown in side-by-side pictures. Caroline Kubzansky, Chicago Tribune, 6 Oct. 2024 Not just coins, spoons and the like, but our Avon lady could sell us perfume in a bottle shaped like Betsy Ross sewing the flag or soaps with George and Martha Washington’s likeness molded onto them. Teri Michele Youmans, TIME, 30 Sep. 2024 In this position, Seigfried will oversee name, image and likeness (NIL) revenue generation on behalf of Penn State Athletics, securing commercial NIL partnership agreements and developing comprehensive strategies to grow new income streams for the athletic department. Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 27 Sep. 2024 Pink Floyd has reportedly sold their music catalog, along with their name and likeness to Sony to the tune of approximately $400 million. Angel Saunders, People.com, 3 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for likeness 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'likeness.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near likeness

Cite this Entry

“Likeness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/likeness. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on likeness

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