Like for like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Like for like" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts where a comparison is made between similar items or situations, often in financial or business discussions. Example: "When evaluating the performance of the two products, we need to consider the sales figures on a like for like basis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Like for like sales in Ireland were down by 3%.

The Guardian - Business

"This image does not compare like for like," said a Nestlé spokesman.

Independent

Maybe a like for like comparison is needed.

The Guardian - Sport

The notion of a "like for like" replacement is bogus.

The Guardian

It's not a like for like comparison.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It's not like-for-like.

Independent

They are virtually like-for-like".

The Guardian - Sport

"Immigrants are not like-for-like substitutes.

The Guardian - Business

Like-for-like sales rose 6.1%.

The Guardian - Business

Like-for-like sales were up 0.7%.

The Guardian - Business

Like-for-like sales there plunged 15.5%.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In sports contexts, use "like for like" to describe player substitutions that maintain the team's strategic balance and positional structure.

Common error

Avoid using "like for like" to compare fundamentally different items or situations. Ensure that the items share enough similarities for the comparison to be meaningful and relevant, otherwise use alternatives such as "apples and oranges".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "like for like" is as a modifier, often used adjectivally to describe a comparison or replacement that is directly equivalent. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in this context.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like for like" is a versatile term used to signify direct comparisons or equivalent replacements. It's grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig, and frequently appears in business and sports contexts. While "like for like" is a useful tool for making accurate assessments, ensure it is used to compare similar items and situations. Alternatives such as "equivalent comparison" or "direct substitution" can provide similar meaning in different contexts. Ensure the items being compared share enough similarities, otherwise you're comparing "apples and oranges". In conclusion, understanding its proper application ensures clarity and accuracy in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Equivalent comparison

Focuses on the similarity and comparability between two items.

Direct substitution

Highlights the idea of replacing one item with a similar one.

Comparable replacement

Emphasizes the interchangeability of similar items.

Matching counterpart

Stresses the presence of a corresponding element.

Identical alternative

Underscores the idea of having an indistinguishable option.

Mirror image

Focuses on how one element reflects the characteristics of the other.

Parallel situation

Emphasizes that the items have matching features.

In similar terms

General expression to compare two items, but with a less specific meaning.

On a comparable basis

Suggests a detailed comparison of two items.

On equal footing

Highlights the fairness and balance of the comparison.

FAQs

How is the phrase "like for like" used in business?

In business, "like for like" often refers to comparing sales or revenues from the same stores or services over different periods, excluding the impact of new openings or closures to assess organic growth.

What does "like for like" mean in sports?

In sports, a "like for like" substitution involves replacing a player with another who has a similar role and skillset, aiming to maintain the team's balance and strategy.

When is it appropriate to use "like for like" comparisons?

It's appropriate to use "like for like" comparisons when you want to assess the true performance of a business or team, by controlling external factors. Always ensure that the items being compared are indeed similar enough for a meaningful comparison.

What are some alternatives to "like for like"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "equivalent comparison", "direct substitution", or "on a comparable basis" to convey a similar meaning.