compare

verb

kəm-ˈper How to pronounce compare (audio)
Definition of comparenext
1
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
2
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

Example 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 In the 2024-25 school year, almost 25% of Crowley ISD students were chronically absent, compared with 18% of students statewide, according to Texas Education Agency data. — Lina Ruiz october 8, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Oct. 2026 People serving time in correctional facilities disproportionately experience mental health problems, substance abuse, infectious diseases, and chronic conditions compared with the general public. — Elizabeth Gulino, Allure, 8 Oct. 2026 Deadline also compared the Royal Mail ad with other Vaughan audio using three different open-source AI analysis tools. — Jake Kanter, Deadline, 8 Oct. 2026 Luna 3’s images were eye-opening but still blandly colorless and fuzzy—especially compared with the kaleidoscopic, panchromatic views from Artemis II’s lunar pirouette. — Robin George Andrews, Scientific American, 8 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for compare
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compare
  1. equate
  2. identify
  3. connect
  4. relate
Verb
  • Why the burning sensation is not a benefit That sharp alcohol sting many of us learned to equate with efficacy is doing no useful work.
    — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 5 Oct. 2026
  • Bob O’Brien, Counterpoint’s research director, also equates Mini LED with FALD.
    — ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of equate
Verb
  • After being asked to step out of the chair, a police dog identifies a tin of Altoids in the artist’s pocket.
    — William Vaillancourt, Rolling Stone, 11 Oct. 2026
  • Sheriff’s officials said the detectives later identified Morales Garcia, Farfan Ambriz and Medina as suspects in the homicide and obtained arrest warrants for them.
    — Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 10 Oct. 2026
Definition of identify
Verb
  • Join her for forest bathing or connecting with the Island’s ancient trees.
    — Adrienne Matei, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Oct. 2026
  • Awe Inspired cofounder and chief executive officer Max Johnson first connected with Wilson after the model wore one of the brand’s necklaces to a Teen Vogue summit.
    — Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 10 Oct. 2026
Definition of connect
Verb
  • Benski and Clifford are currently in dispute with Vice over payments related the sale of Pulse.
    — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 12 Oct. 2026
  • Vollmann was also pessimistic, relating that feeling comes from more than America’s current political issues, but also from the world’s environmental problems.
    — Graham Womack, Sacbee.com, 11 Oct. 2026
Definition of relate

Phrases Containing compare

Browse Nearby Words

comparative
compare
compared
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Cite this Entry

“Compare.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compare. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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