ENGLISH
REFERENCE

dissimilar

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //dɪˈsɪməɫɝ// UK //dɪsˈɪmɪlɐ// dis·sim·i·lar

adj. not the same as something else. You use this to describe two or more things that are different in appearance, quality, or character.

adj. not alike; different in nature, form, or quality. Often used in comparative structures to highlight a lack of resemblance between two entities.


SIMPLE

The two brothers have very dissimilar personalities.

CONTEXTUAL

Although they are both citrus fruits, the flavors of a lemon and an orange are quite dissimilar.

COMPLEX

The architectural styles of the two cities are entirely dissimilar, reflecting the unique historical influences and cultural priorities that shaped their respective urban landscapes over several centuries.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From dis- + similar.

Usage

Commonly used with the preposition 'from' or 'to' when making a direct comparison.

Pitfall

The results were dissimilar than the first test.The results were dissimilar to the first test.Unlike 'different', which can take 'than' in some dialects, 'dissimilar' is almost exclusively paired with 'to' or 'from'.

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