Definition of variousnext

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of various are different, disparate, divergent, and diverse. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," various stresses the number of sorts or kinds.

tried various methods

When could different be used to replace various?

While the synonyms different and various are close in meaning, 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 various?

The synonyms disparate and various are sometimes interchangeable, but disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When would divergent be a good substitute for various?

Although the words divergent and various 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 is diverse a more appropriate choice than various?

In some situations, the words diverse and various are roughly equivalent. However, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

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 various This season, Scripps Sports agreed to broadcast various games, including the playoffs, on ION, which is accessible to 126 million American households. ABC News, 6 May 2026 Here is what’s recalled and what various chains have identified as potato chips sold by their stores. David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 6 May 2026 This article was created by content specialists using various tools, including AI. Ryan Brennan may 6, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 May 2026 The European Commission is working with the various countries and airlines to manage supplies. Jordan Blum, Fortune, 6 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for various
Recent Examples of Synonyms for various
Adjective
  • Nor any pebble clattering down the medieval stones, plinking into the tea- colored water.
    Ellen Bass, New Yorker, 4 May 2026
  • Disney history fans know that the Rainbow Caverns Mine Train was a former attraction at Disneyland in Anaheim, California, where colored pools and waterfalls could be seen among the cave formations.
    Megan duBois, Southern Living, 4 May 2026
Adjective
  • Turner, a colorful figure with a Southern drawl and rail-thin mustache, had pronounced views himself, often (though not exclusively) of a liberal bent.
    David Folkenflik, NPR, 6 May 2026
  • Create a colorful and energetic ‘Bright Bunch’ bouquet using Suncredible® Yellow II Helianthus, Truffula™ Pink Gomphrena, and Sunstar® Lavender Pentas.
    Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 May 2026
Adjective
  • Most important, camouflage needed to function well at different times of day, in varied lighting and changing weather conditions.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 5 May 2026
  • Boyne Mountain Resort is a destination in its own right, offering activities as varied as ziplining, e-biking, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides.
    Taryn Shorr-Mckee, Midwest Living, 4 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 8 May. 2026.

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