unlike

[uhn-lahyk]

adjective

1. different, dissimilar, or unequal; not alike.

   They contributed unlike sums to charity.

preposition

1. dissimilar to; different from.

   She is unlike my sister in many ways.

2. not typical or characteristic of.

   It is unlike her to enjoy herself so much.

noun

1. a person or thing differing from another or others.

unlike

/ ʌnˈlaɪk /

adjective

1. not alike; dissimilar or unequal; different

2. archaic,  unlikely

preposition

1. not like; not typical of

   unlike his father, he lacks intelligence

Other Word Forms

• unlikeness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unlike¹

First recorded in 1150–1200, unlike is from the Middle English word unlik. See un- ¹, like ¹

Example Sentences

“That was so much more than a number. It connected the moment to one six decades earlier. It connected Cal Ripken to freaking Lou Gehrig. It evokes memories and emotions unlike numbers in any sport.”

From Los Angeles Times

Binoculars or a telescope will help if you have them, and unlike with solar eclipses, which are dangerous to view directly, lunar eclipses won't damage your eyes as the Moon's reflected light isn't bright enough.

From BBC

"It was awful… the sound was unlike anything I ever heard," she added.

From BBC

But unlike less affluent, more relatable candidates, a billionaire or multimillionaire has a much heavier burden convincing voters they know what they’re talking about and genuinely mean it.

From Los Angeles Times

But unlike some in the Greens, Polanski views the new party as an opportunity rather than a threat.

From BBC