Some common synonyms of different are disparate, divergent, diverse, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

// different foods

Although the words divergent and different have much in common, divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation.

// went on to pursue divergent careers

In some situations, the words diverse and different are roughly equivalent. However, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

// such diverse interests as dancing and football