COMPARE Synonyms: 32 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'compare' distinct from other similar verbs?

The words collate and contrast are common synonyms of compare . While all three words mean "to set side by side in order to show differences and likenesses," compare implies an aim of showing relative values or excellences by bringing out characteristic qualities whether similar or divergent. // compared the convention facilities of the two cities

Q: In what contexts can 'collate' take the place of 'compare'?

The meanings of collate and compare largely overlap; however, collate implies minute and critical inspection in order to note points of agreement or divergence. // data from districts around the country will be collated

Q: When might 'contrast' be a better fit than 'compare'?

While the synonyms contrast and compare are close in meaning, contrast implies an emphasis on differences. // contrasted the computerized system with the old filing cards

compare

verb

kəm-ˈper

Definition of compare next

as in to equate

to describe as similar reviews that compared the adventure movie to a thrilling ride on a roller coaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

contrast

as in to identify

to regard or represent as equal or comparable compared the restaurant's food to the nectar of the gods

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word compare distinct from other similar verbs?

The words collate and contrast are common synonyms of compare. While all three words mean "to set side by side in order to show differences and likenesses," compare implies an aim of showing relative values or excellences by bringing out characteristic qualities whether similar or divergent.

compared the convention facilities of the two cities

In what contexts can collate take the place of compare?

The meanings of collate and compare largely overlap; however, collate implies minute and critical inspection in order to note points of agreement or divergence.

data from districts around the country will be collated

When might contrast be a better fit than compare?

While the synonyms contrast and compare are close in meaning, contrast implies an emphasis on differences.

contrasted the computerized system with the old filing cards

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of compare Brendel said the only player who compares in terms of size is Giants’ All-Pro Dexter Lawrence, listed at 6-4, 350. —

Jerry McDonald, The Mercury News, 8 Nov. 2024 According to Open Secrets, a website that tracks political spending, Slotkin has already spent nearly $44 million of her own campaign funds on the race, compared with $8.6 million for Rogers. —

Todd Spangler, Detroit Free Press, 6 Nov. 2024 The time wasted comparing features and functionality in commoditized markets can be measured in person-years in many organizations. —

Mark Tauschek, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 Harris has an overwhelming lead (40 percentage points) among women ages 19 to 29 compared with Trump's 5-point advantage among men in that same age range, ABC News and Ipsos found. —

Alexandra Hutzler, ABC News, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for compare

Recent Examples of Synonyms for compare

Verb

These individuals equate self-sufficiency with strength and leaning on others can feel like an admission of weakness or dependency, both of which may trigger feelings of discomfort or anxiety.

Mark Travers, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024
The offending comedic act equated Puerto Rico to a floating island of garbage, touching a sore spot and potentially energizing key groups of low-propensity or undecided Puerto Rican voters in swing states.

Rafael Bernal, The Hill, 31 Oct. 2024