At a first superficial glance, Uropygi, Amblypygi, solifugids or pseudoscorpions can be mistaken for scorpions. Adult scorpions cannot be confused with Schizomyda or with Palpigrada, since these last two animal groups only include small species (3 mm).

• Uropygi or whip scorpions. This group of arthropods includes around 85 species. They have chelicerae and pedipalps. The first pair of legs is moderately long. They have a sort of whip-like tail which makes them look somewhat like scorpions. They do not have stings as real scorpions do. From special anal glands they can spray a caustic liquid which consists of a mixture of 84% acetic acid and 16% caprylic acid. Sometimes the venom also includes formic acid. Due to their typical vinegary odour, in English the creatures are sometimes called "vinegarroons".
• Amblypygi or tailless scorpions. The first pair of legs is extremely long and resembles a pair of antennae. They have heavy pedipalps, but no sting. They are harmless.
• Solifugae or Solpugida. These rather large animals are sometimes also called "sun spiders" or "wind spiders", referring to their diurnal habits and their high speed. They have no sting.
• Pseudoscorpions are rarely longer than 8 mm, and have neither a long abdomen nor a sting.