unlike

[uhn-lahyk]

adjective

1. different, dissimilar, or unequal; not alike.

   They contributed unlike sums to charity.

preposition

1. dissimilar to; different from.

   She is unlike my sister in many ways.

2. not typical or characteristic of.

   It is unlike her to enjoy herself so much.

noun

1. a person or thing differing from another or others.

unlike

/ ʌnˈlaɪk /

adjective

1. not alike; dissimilar or unequal; different

2. archaic,  unlikely

preposition

1. not like; not typical of

   unlike his father, he lacks intelligence

Other Word Forms

• unlikeness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unlike¹

First recorded in 1150–1200, unlike is from the Middle English word unlik. See un- ¹, like ¹

Example Sentences

For better or worse, “The Life of a Showgirl,” Taylor Swift’s 12th studio album, is unlike anything the megastar has done before.

From Los Angeles Times

Early in her professional career, Byrne just wanted to work and wasn’t particularly discerning about the roles she would take, unlike some of her peers.

From Los Angeles Times

In 2017, she became a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire but - unlike Hyacinth - honours did not go to her head.

From BBC

They lost four of six to them during the regular season in which the Phillies, unlike many other teams, seemed completely unintimidated and fully up to the challenge.

From Los Angeles Times

That meant, unlike the last three years, the Dodgers did not have a bye to the division series.

From Los Angeles Times