Definition

Adjective: * Not alike or similar; different in nature, form, or quality. It describes two or more things that do not share the same characteristics or appearance.

Usage

"Unalike" is used to compare two or more entities, emphasizing their distinct differences. It is the direct opposite of "alike." * It is typically used after a linking verb like be, seem, or look. * It is often followed by the preposition "in" to specify the aspect of difference.

Examples

• Basic Comparison:
  • The two sisters are completely unalike in both personality and interests.
  • Despite being twins, their handwriting is strikingly unalike.
• With "in" to specify difference:
  • The proposed solutions are unalike in their approach and cost.
  • These two species of birds are very unalike in their nesting habits.

Advanced Usage

• "As unalike as...": This is a common comparative structure used to hyperbolically emphasize extreme difference.
  • They are as unalike as night and day.
  • The two political candidates are as unalike as any two people could be.

Variants and Related Words

• Unlike (Preposition/Adjective): While often used similarly, "unlike" is more commonly a preposition () but can also function as an adjective meaning "not like; different from" (). "Unalike" is used specifically as a predicate adjective.
• Dissimilar (Adjective): A more formal synonym for "unalike."
• Different (Adjective): A more common and general synonym. "Unalike" is a stronger, more direct antonym for "alike."

Synonyms

• Dissimilar
• Different
• Distinct
• Divergent
• Contrasting

Antonyms

• Alike
• Similar
• Identical
• Same
• Comparable

Adjective

1. not alike or similar
   • as unalike as two people could be