Synonym Chooser

How is the word similarity distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of similarity are analogy, likeness, resemblance, 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 could analogy be used to replace similarity?

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

pointed out analogies to past wars

Where would resemblance be a reasonable alternative to similarity?

The words resemblance and similarity can be used in similar contexts, but resemblance implies similarity chiefly in appearance or external qualities.

statements that bear little resemblance to the truth

In what contexts can similitude take the place of similarity?

While in some cases nearly identical to similarity, similitude applies chiefly to correspondence between abstractions.

two schools of social thought showing points of similitude

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 similarity As a 6-foot lefty, Young has been labeled by some as the G League’s Jalen Brunson because of some similarities in their games. Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 19 Oct. 2025 The similarities are striking, especially for Broncos Country, a fanbase longing for the franchise’s first playoff victory since Super Bowl 50. Troy Renck, Denver Post, 18 Oct. 2025 When Dibble took over the Blue Raiders program, there were some similarities to the situation that Vance inherited at Central. Cody Thorn, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Oct. 2025 But the candidates’ similarities go beyond their policy. Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 16 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for similarity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for similarity
resemblance
Noun
  • Joyce's nebula scene captures the expanding shell of the supernova remnant CTB 1, also known as both the Garlic Nebula and the Medulla Nebula for its resemblance to both the bulbous plant and the human brain.
    Anthony Wood, Space.com, 24 Oct. 2025
  • Rob even shared a photo of Dream wearing one of his childhood shirts in 2021, and the resemblance was uncanny.
    Emy LaCroix, PEOPLE, 23 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Similarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/similarity. Accessed 26 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on similarity

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