What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unsimilar
Example
The two paintings are unsimilar in style and subject matter. [unsimilar: adjective]
Example
The two siblings are unsimilar in personality and interests. [unsimilar: adjective]
unlike
Example
Unlike his brother, he prefers reading over watching TV. [unlike: preposition]
Example
The two cars are unlike in size and color. [unlike: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unlike is more commonly used than unsimilar in everyday language. Unlike is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unsimilar is less common and may sound awkward or unfamiliar to some people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unsimilar and unlike?
Unsimilar may sound more formal or technical than unlike, but both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation and tone of the conversation.