preposition / adjective
unlike
Different from or not typical of.
Unlike her sister, Maya prefers quiet evenings at home.
Etymology
The parts directly mean not alike. Unlike marks a difference in character or a departure from what is typical.
More examples
- It is unlike him to forget a friend's birthday.
- The two paintings are surprisingly unlike in style.
- Unlike most metals, mercury is liquid at room temperature.
Forms
unlike
Similar words
- different
- Describes a contrast, usually followed by 'from' before nouns.
- dissimilar
- Emphasizes a lack of resemblance between people or things.
- uncharacteristic
- Means not typical of someone's usual behavior or habits.