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Synonyms

similarity

American  
[sim-uh-lar-i-tee] / ˌsɪm əˈlær ɪ ti /

noun

plural

similarities
  1. the state of being similar; likeness; resemblance.

    Synonyms:
    parallelism, correspondence, similitude
    Antonyms:
    difference
  2. an aspect, trait, or feature like or resembling another or another's.

    a similarity of diction.


Related Words

See resemblance.

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of similarity

First recorded in 1655–65; similar + -ity

Explanation

You might get annoyed if people keep saying there is a similarity between you and your older sister, particularly if you're tired of being compared to her. A similarity is a sameness or alikeness. When you are comparing two things — physical objects, ideas, or experiences — you often look at their similarities and their differences. Difference is the opposite of similarity. Both squares and rectangles have four sides, that is a similarity between them. Just because two things share similarities doesn't mean they are the same.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing similarity

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Similarity between species suggests these cell types play important roles in brain function.

From Scientific American • Oct. 6, 2021

Similarity, mimicry and being in sync are all very powerful.

From Time • Dec. 9, 2014

Similarity of MHC composition may also explain why some couples have difficulty getting pregnant, and it may even explain the frequency of spontaneous abortions.

From Slate • Aug. 25, 2014

One of the statistics featured on the site is something called "Similarity Score," invented by Bill James several years ago to show players who have had similar careers.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 21, 2014

Similarity and contrast are not the only resemblance relations.

From "The Sense of Style" by Steven Pinker