Substantially similar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Substantially similar" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or formal contexts to describe two things that are alike in significant ways, though not identical. Example: "The two contracts are substantially similar, which means they can be treated as having the same terms and conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

3. Substantially similar.

Cornell University

Substantially similar language appeared in the Federal Equity Rules adopted in 1912.

Cornell University

"Substantially similar?" said Deborah W. Denno, a law professor at Fordham University whose work was cited by the court.

The New York Times

"Substantially similar" was first used in last year's California Fair Pay Act, which targeted unequal pay between men and women.

The Guardian

1. Substantially similar.

Cornell University

It only has to be substantially similar.

The Washington Post

The present code provision is substantially similar.

Cornell University

Jurors must decide whether the two sequences are substantially similar.

The Guardian - Music

The trust must also show the works are substantially similar.

The Guardian - Music

The results for different boundary conditions are substantially similar.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

It also advised that state and territories "enact legislation with offences the same or substantially similar".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing items and stating they are "substantially similar", provide data or evidence to support your claim. This strengthens your argument and enhances credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "substantially similar" when there are significant or material differences between the items being compared. Overstating the similarity can mislead your audience and weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantially similar" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase modifying nouns. It describes the degree to which two or more entities share common characteristics, often used in contexts requiring careful comparison as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

43%

News & Media

38%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "substantially similar" is a common and grammatically sound adjectival phrase used to describe a significant degree of resemblance without implying exact identity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various domains, including academia, news, and science. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by defining the criteria for similarity and supporting your claims with evidence. While versatile, avoid overstating similarities when significant differences exist. Alternatives include "materially similar", "essentially alike", and "largely analogous", each offering slight nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Materially similar

Emphasizes similarity in essential or relevant aspects.

Largely analogous

Highlights the analogy or correspondence between two things.

Essentially alike

Focuses on the fundamental sameness despite possible superficial differences.

Nearly identical

Suggests a very high degree of similarity, approaching complete identity.

Closely related

Implies a strong connection or resemblance.

Broadly comparable

Indicates that items can be compared in a general sense.

Roughly equivalent

Suggests approximate equality or interchangeability.

Much the same

An informal way to express a high degree of similarity.

To all intents and purposes the same

Expresses functional equivalence, especially in a legal or practical context.

For all practical purposes equivalent

Focuses on equivalent results or outcomes in real-world applications.

FAQs

How is "substantially similar" used in legal contexts?

In legal contexts, "substantially similar" often refers to the degree of resemblance required to prove copyright infringement or to determine if two laws are analogous. The exact interpretation can vary depending on the specific legal issue and jurisdiction.

What are some alternatives to saying "substantially similar"?

You can use alternatives like "materially similar", "essentially alike", or "largely analogous" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "substantially similar"?

It is appropriate to use "substantially similar" when you want to indicate that two or more things share key characteristics or features without being exactly the same. This is common in legal, technical, and comparative contexts.

What's the difference between "substantially similar" and "identical"?

"Substantially similar" indicates a high degree of resemblance but allows for some differences, while "identical" means exactly the same. If two things are "identical", there are no differences.