different

different [dif′ər ənt, dif′rənt]

adj.

[ME < OFr < L differens: see DIFFERENCE]

1. not alike; dissimilar: with from, or, esp. informally, than, and, in Brit. usage, to

2. not the same; distinct; separate; other

3. various

4. unlike most others; unusual

differently

adv.

differentness

n.

SYN.- DIFFERENT, applied to things that are not alike, implies individuality [three different doctors ] or contrast [the twins wore different hats ]; DIVERSE more emphatically sets apart the things referred to, suggesting a conspicuous difference [diverse interests ]; DIVERGENT suggests a branching off in different directions with an ever-widening distance between, and stresses irreconcilability [divergent schools of thought ]; DISTINCT, as applied to two or more things, stresses that each has a different identity and is unmistakably separate from the others, whether or not they are similar in kind, class, etc. [charged with two distinct offenses ]; DISSIMILAR stresses absence of similarity in appearance, properties, or nature [dissimilar techniques ]; DISPARATE implies essential or thoroughgoing difference, often stressing an absence of any relationship between things [disparate concepts ]; VARIOUS emphasizes the number and diversity of kinds, types, etc. [various gifts ] -ANT. ALIKE, SIMILAR