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 Part of the story draws strength from the fact that these characters are immersed in nature and in such close proximity to animals for what feels like the first time, which provokes various emotions in them—fear, unease, and suffocation, to name a few. Jim Halterman, IndieWire, 24 Feb. 2025 Workers at various agencies were told not to respond pending further guidance, according to Reuters. Jane Onyanga-Omara, USA TODAY, 24 Feb. 2025 The lack of upper-level depth in the Padres’ farm system should place additional significance on their various position battles. Dennis Lin, The Athletic, 24 Feb. 2025 Moreover, there was a collective acknowledgment of the need for greater support from various sectors, including government and commercial enterprises, to nurture emerging talents and solidify Seoul’s standing as a dynamic leader in global fashion. Wwd Staff, WWD, 24 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for various

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Cite this Entry

“Various.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/various. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

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