disparate

/ˈdɪsp(ə)ɹət/

Group 4Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Essentially different in kind; not allowing comparison
GRE

Example in Context

The committee struggled to reconcile the disparate viewpoints of its members, each of whom approached the issue from a fundamentally different set of assumptions.

Synonyms

differentunlikediverse

Etymology

Things prepared apart, highlighting their essential differences.

  • dis- (Latin) — apart
  • parare (Latin) — to prepare

Memory Aid

⚖️Sounds like “disparate

DISPARATE items at a yard sale include a toaster and a unicorn statue!

Visual Association

🦄A bizarre yard sale featuring a toaster next to a dancing unicorn, showcasing their differences.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “disparate” mean on the GRE?

disparate (adjective) means “Essentially different in kind; not allowing comparison”. The committee struggled to reconcile the disparate viewpoints of its members, each of whom approached the issue from a fundamentally different set of assumptions.

How to remember “disparate” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “disparate” sounds like “disparate”. DISPARATE items at a yard sale include a toaster and a unicorn statue!

What are synonyms for “disparate”?

Common synonyms: different, unlike, diverse.