What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
divergent
Example
The two rivers diverged at the base of the mountain. [diverged: past tense]
Example
Their opinions on the matter were completely divergent. [divergent: adjective]
unlike
Example
Unlike her sister, she preferred savory foods over sweet ones. [unlike: preposition]
Example
The two paintings were unlike in style and subject matter. [unlike: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unlike is more commonly used than divergent in everyday language. Unlike is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while divergent is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between divergent and unlike?
Both divergent and unlike can be used in formal and informal contexts, but divergent may be more commonly used in academic or technical writing due to its specific meaning.
