Virtually identical

USAGE SUMMARY

"virtually identical" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe two things that are almost the same but may have minor differences. For example, "The two models are virtually identical in design." Alternative expressions include "nearly identical" and "almost the same."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Virtually identical results are obtained by silencing the small subunit.

Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology

They were virtually identical.

The New York Times

Our meals were virtually identical.

The New York Times - Food

The figures are virtually identical.

The New York Times

In a virtually identical bottle.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Response rates were virtually identical.

Journal of Environmental Management

The new, virtually identical number replaces it.

The New York Times

Engine virtually identical to the Citroën's.

Independent

Texas uses a virtually identical formula.

The New York Times

The results, he says, were virtually identical.

The Guardian - Tech

The recorded events are virtually identical.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "virtually identical" to indicate that items are so similar that any differences are negligible for practical purposes. This implies a very high degree of resemblance without claiming absolute sameness.

Common error

Avoid using "virtually identical" when there are significant or noticeable differences. Misusing the phrase can mislead your audience and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "virtually identical" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, indicating that two or more things are nearly, but not perfectly, the same. Ludwig shows many examples where this phrase effectively conveys a high degree of similarity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "virtually identical" is a common and correct way to describe items that are very similar but not perfectly the same. As Ludwig confirms, it's widely used in various contexts, including news, science, and formal communication. While it's appropriate for formal writing, avoid overstating the similarity when notable differences exist. Using alternatives such as ""nearly the same"" or ""almost indistinguishable"" can help refine your meaning based on the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

almost indistinguishable

Highlights the difficulty in perceiving any difference at all.

nearly the same

Emphasizes the slight possibility of minor differences.

practically equivalent

Focuses on functional equivalence despite potential superficial differences.

essentially alike

Stresses fundamental similarities over any minor variations.

tantamount to

Suggests the phrases have the same effect or outcome.

much the same

Implies similarity with a slightly informal tone.

close to identical

Highlights the proximity to being completely identical.

for all intents and purposes the same

Emphasizes that any differences are irrelevant in practice.

in effect, identical

Stresses the practical equivalence despite potential technical differences.

comparable to

Points out the degree of equivalence with another entity.

FAQs

How can I use "virtually identical" in a sentence?

You can use "virtually identical" to describe things that are almost the same. For example, "The two prototypes are "virtually identical" in terms of functionality".

What are some alternatives to "virtually identical"?

Some alternatives to "virtually identical" include "nearly the same", "almost indistinguishable", or "practically equivalent", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "virtually identical" in formal writing?

Yes, "virtually identical" is appropriate for formal writing. Ludwig's examples show its use in news articles, scientific papers, and business reports.

What's the difference between "virtually identical" and "exactly the same"?

"Virtually identical" suggests a very high degree of similarity, while "exactly the same" implies complete equivalence. If there are any differences, however small, ""virtually identical"" is more appropriate.