disparate
/ˈdɪspərət/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈdɪspərət/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈdi-sp(ə-)rət di-ˈsper-ət, -ˈspa-rət/ (ame, mw)
disparate — adjective
- disparatepositive
- more disparatecomparative
- most disparatesuperlative
1. Describing two or more things that differ so greatly in quality, character, or o
Describing two or more things that differ so greatly in quality, character, or origin that combining or comparing them is difficult, unnatural, or unreasonable.
The two authors come from such disparate backgrounds that their novels share almost no common themes.
such disparate + [plural noun] + that-clause — cause-effect pattern
Reuben's report tried to combine disparate pieces of data into a single clear conclusion.
disparate + [plural noun] — attributive use
Tanvi found it hard to work with the team because the members had such disparate goals.
The museum exhibition brings together disparate art styles from three different centuries.
Sirin argued that the two political movements are too disparate to form a useful alliance.
- different
General-purpose word; far less formal and much weaker — use for any degree of difference
- distinct
Focuses on the separation between things rather than the impossibility of comparison; slightly more formal than 'different'
- contrasting
Emphasises deliberate comparison of opposing qualities, often in visual or stylistic contexts
- divergent
Suggests a process of moving apart in direction or opinion; more dynamic and less static than 'disparate'
- similar
The most basic and direct opposite; possible to compare or combine
- comparable
Things that can reasonably be measured or evaluated against each other
- homogeneous
Describes a group whose parts are all the same or very alike; formal register, like 'disparate'
文法句型
disparate + plural noun
disparate + from + [noun phrase]
用法筆記
More emphatic and formal than 'different'. 'Disparate' implies that the differences are deep-rooted enough to make combination, comparison, or cooperation feel illogical. Common in academic writing, political analysis, and formal reports — rare in everyday conversation.