Dislike vs. Unlike: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on November 11, 2023
"Dislike" means to have a feeling of aversion or lack of favor towards something, while "unlike" is used to indicate dissimilarity or to remove a 'like' on social media.
Key Differences
Dislike is a verb and noun indicating a negative feeling towards someone or something, as in not enjoying or approving of it. While, unlike, as a preposition, is used to show contrast or difference between two or more things.
In the context of social media, unlike is a verb meaning to withdraw a previously given 'like', a digital action of approval or agreement. Dislike, however, does not have a direct digital action equivalent but simply conveys a sentiment of disapproval.
The noun form of dislike refers to the feeling of disapproval itself, such as having a dislike for certain foods. Whereas, unlike, when used as a verb unrelated to social media, means to differ or to not be similar to something.
Dislike can be used to express personal preferences or tastes, ranging from mild aversion to strong antipathy. Unlike, as a preposition, is used to draw comparisons or highlight distinctions, such as in the sentence, "Unlike apples, oranges have a citrusy flavor."
Dislike is about a personal feeling of aversion or disapproval, while unlike serves to either indicate dissimilarity or reverse a 'like' on social media platforms.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Verb, Noun
Verb (social media), Preposition
Meaning
Aversion or disapproval
Dissimilarity, reversing a 'like'
Usage
Expressing personal disfavor
Showing contrast, withdrawing a 'like'
Context
General sentiment, personal preference
Comparisons, social media interactions
Example
I dislike spicy food.
Unlike her, I prefer quiet evenings.
ADVERTISEMENT
Dislike and Unlike Definitions
Dislike
To have an unfavorable opinion.
She dislikes the new policy.
Unlike
To reverse a 'like' on social media.
I accidentally liked the post, so I had to unlike it.
Dislike
Lack of preference for something.
They dislike cold weather.
Unlike
Different from.
Unlike my sister, I'm not a fan of horror movies.
Dislike
Feeling of aversion.
My dislike for olives is well-known.
Unlike
Showing contrast.
Unlike in the city, the countryside is peaceful.
Dislike
To not enjoy or approve of something.
He dislikes waking up early.
Unlike
Not typical of.
His quiet demeanor is unlike his usual self.
Dislike
Antipathy or negative sentiment.
His dislike for chores is evident.
Unlike
Dissimilar in nature.
It's unlike her to miss deadlines.
Dislike
To regard with distaste or aversion.
Unlike
Not alike; different
For twins, they are very unlike.
Dislike
An attitude or a feeling of distaste or aversion.
Unlike
Not equal, as in amount.
Unlike
Different from; not like
She's unlike the rest of her family.
FAQs
Is dislike always strong?
No, it can range from mild to strong aversion.
Can dislike be a noun?
Yes, referring to the feeling of disapproval.
How is unlike used in social media?
To withdraw a previously given 'like'.
Can unlike be a verb outside social media?
No, it's primarily a preposition in general usage.
How do you express dislike?
Verbally or non-verbally showing disapproval or aversion.
What does unlike as a preposition mean?
It shows contrast or dissimilarity.
What is an example of unlike in a sentence?
"Unlike the ocean, the lake is calm."
Is it common to dislike things?
Yes, everyone has personal dislikes.
What does dislike mean?
To have an aversion or negative feeling towards something.
Can you dislike someone?
Yes, it refers to having negative feelings towards a person.
Is unlike used in formal writing?
Yes, particularly to make comparisons.
How do you use unlike in comparison?
To draw distinctions between two subjects.
Do animals show dislike?
Yes, through behavior indicating aversion.
Can unlike start a sentence?
Yes, often in comparative statements.
Does unlike imply a negative connotation?
Not necessarily, it's neutral, showing difference.
What's another word for unlike?
Dissimilar, different, or not like.
Can dislikes change over time?
Yes, people's preferences can evolve.
Can you dislike a concept?
Yes, dislike can apply to ideas or beliefs.
Does everyone have dislikes?
Yes, it's a normal part of personal preferences.
How is unlike used in literature?
To establish contrasts between characters or settings.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
