unlike

American  

[uhn-lahyk] / ʌnˈlaɪk /

adjective

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

   They contributed unlike sums to charity.

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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 British  

/ ʌnˈlaɪk /

adjective

1. not alike; dissimilar or unequal; different

2. archaic unlikely

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preposition

1. not like; not typical of

   unlike his father, he lacks intelligence

Other Word Forms

• unlikeness
  noun

Etymology

Origin of unlike

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

Example Sentences

Unlike existing systems, this design uses strong electrical currents and magnetic fields to accelerate plasma made from lithium, producing greater thrust at higher power levels.

From Science Daily • May 6, 2026

Unlike condos and co-ops, the townhouse offers “privacy, scale, and authentic architectural grace” that is rare in homes located in multiunit buildings, it continues.

From MarketWatch • May 6, 2026

Unlike Rosmarin's emotional recount, another passenger on the ship, Kasem Hato, said "the whole situation has been blown out of proportion".

From BBC • May 5, 2026

Unlike the static concert films of the past, the new tech allows artists on a remote stage to see, hear, and respond to the theater audience, effectively turning your local cinema into a stadium.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

Unlike Louis Béroud, the Duveens wanted their clients to see their own reflections.

From "The Mona Lisa Vanishes" by Nicholas Day