a point of comparison

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a point of comparison" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing similarities or differences between two or more subjects. Example: "When analyzing the two novels, a point of comparison is the theme of isolation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As a point of comparison, a year ago, IBM said the average order value was $125.25; and in 2013, it was $132.

TechCrunch

As a point of comparison on growth, a year ago, Spotify had 10 million paying users and 40 million active subscribers.

TechCrunch

Classical architecture, as a point of comparison, has one grid".

The New York Times

As a point of comparison, Argentina's bonds make up 23.1percentt.

The New York Times

And, as a point of comparison viz a viz the menace, check this little fellow out.

The Guardian - Film

And the access needed to be only temporary: all he wanted was a point of comparison.

The New Yorker

Argentina, which defaulted and restructured beginning in 2001, offers a point of comparison.

The New York Times

(As a point of comparison, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has an annual operating budget of $200 million).

The New York Times

As a point of comparison, Uber's founder and CEO, Travis Kalanick is a 39-year-old computer engineering graduate.

The Guardian

The Lorenzo years have certainly been a boon to Continental's current managers, if only as a point of comparison.

The New York Times

He has an older brother, Jack, who lives in Dubai and serves as a point of comparison.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a point of comparison" to introduce a familiar or well-understood example to help your audience grasp a new or complex concept more easily.

Common error

Avoid using "a point of comparison" when there is no real basis for comparison, or when the comparison is irrelevant to the topic at hand. A weak comparison can confuse your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a point of comparison" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as an introductory element to highlight similarities or differences between two or more subjects. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correct and frequent use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

31%

Science

30%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a point of comparison" is a versatile phrase used to draw parallels between different subjects, enhancing comprehension by relating the unfamiliar to the familiar. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently employed across various contexts, including news, business, and technical writing. The phrase serves as a valuable tool for providing context, clarifying complex ideas, and strengthening arguments. Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring the comparison is both relevant and insightful to maintain clarity and avoid confusing your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

point of reference

Similar to "a point of comparison" but slightly more general in application.

basis for comparison

Focuses on the underlying reason or rationale for making a comparison.

frame of reference

Highlights the perspective or context used to evaluate something.

comparative measure

Emphasizes the use of a standard for assessing relative value or magnitude.

benchmark

Implies a high standard or best practice against which others are measured.

reference point

Highlights the use of a specific item or value to inform comparison.

yardstick

Suggests using a tool or standard for measuring or evaluating something.

comparable element

Highlights the existence of a similar aspect that enables a comparison.

analogue

Indicates something that is similar or comparable to something else.

parallel

Suggests a similarity or correspondence between two things.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a point of comparison" in my writing?

Introduce "a point of comparison" by clearly stating what you are comparing it to, and why that comparison is relevant to the topic. Provide enough context for your audience to understand the relationship.

What are some alternatives to "a point of comparison"?

You can use alternatives like "basis for comparison", "frame of reference", or "reference point" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "a point of comparison"?

It's appropriate to use "a point of comparison" when you want to clarify something by relating it to something else that your audience is likely to be familiar with. Use it to highlight similarities or differences.

Is "a point of comparison" formal or informal?

"A point of comparison" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, the surrounding language should match the desired tone. For instance, in formal writing, maintain precision and clarity when drawing your comparison.