B1preposition2K

Unlike

UK /["/ˌʌnˈlaɪk/"]/US /["/ˌʌnˈlaɪk/"]/

Definition

different from a particular person or thing

In simple words: Not like something or someone else

Examples

  • Music is quite unlike any other art form.
  • The sound was **not unlike** that of birds singing.
  • Unlike most systems, this one is very easy to install.
  • It's very unlike him to be so late.

Usage notes

Use 'unlike' to compare differences. Common in both spoken and written English. Avoid using it in formal academic writing where more precise comparisons are needed.

Grammar pattern

unlike + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'un-like' as being not the same as something.

Collocations

  • unlike anything
  • unlike other
  • unlike those

Synonyms

  • dissimilar
  • different
  • atypical
  • uncommon
  • distinct

Antonyms

  • like
  • similar

Common mistakes

  • Using 'unlike' with a verb instead of a noun.
  • Confusing 'unlike' with 'dislike'.
  • Incorrectly placing 'unlike' before the subject.