a similar quantity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a similar quantity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing amounts or sizes that are alike or comparable in some way. Example: "The first experiment yielded a certain quantity of results, and the second experiment produced a similar quantity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

In Hillsborough, Mr. Garland's nursery, Garland Truffles, supplies a similar quantity of inoculated trees.

The New York Times - Food

Add a similar quantity of water to completely cover the broccoli.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A similar quantity of soyabeans has gone to Pakistan's poultry farms.

The Economist

This article was amended on 6 March 2012 because the original said a similar quantity of seeds were sold at a Sotheby's auction last year.

The Guardian - Arts

American forces consume more than 1m gallons of fuel a day in Afghanistan, and a similar quantity in Iraq.Until recently military planners had assumed that fuel would be plentiful and easily available.

The Economist

One will collect ten or more kilos of refined Turkish or Afghan heroin for which the boss will pay £15,000-17,000 a kilo and perhaps a similar quantity of cocaine.Violence, like distribution, is outsourced.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

In a first eddy-permitting study, D13 calculated a very similar quantity of additional outgassing of natural CO2 during positive SAM periods (0.1 Pg C yr−1) as we do.

Global Biogeochemical Cycles

Western blot showed that RAGE was expressed in both initiating and target cells at a relatively similar quantity.

Cell Death and Disease

Neurons in area 35 were traced in an almost similar quantity as in the two non-demented elderly brains with mild AD-related pathology.

Acta Neuropathologica

As it follows from the dependence obtained (see Fig. 2 or Fig. 3), the binding energy in Kane's semiconductors is greater than the similar quantity in a standard case for all values of the wire radius and the magnetic field.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The similar quantity for an electron moving from C to D is written E(C to D).

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a similar quantity", ensure that the basis for comparison is clear and that the similarity is relevant to the context. For instance, specify the units or characteristics that are being compared (e.g. "a similar quantity of energy" or "a similar quantity of resources").

Common error

Avoid using "a similar quantity" without specifying what it is similar to. Without context, it can be unclear and leave the reader guessing. Always provide a reference point for the comparison to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a similar quantity" functions as a determiner phrase specifying an amount comparable to a previously mentioned or understood quantity. It modifies a noun, indicating the degree to which two amounts are alike. Ludwig confirms this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a similar quantity" is grammatically correct and used to indicate amounts that are alike but not necessarily identical. It is most commonly found in scientific and news-related contexts and maintains a neutral to formal register. While not exceptionally frequent, its meaning is clear and Ludwig AI validates its appropriate use across various examples. Related phrases include "a comparable amount" and "an equivalent quantity", offering alternative ways to express the same concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a comparable amount

Focuses on the amount being comparable, implying a numerical or measurable likeness.

an equivalent quantity

Highlights that the quantity is equal in value, measure, or effect.

a like amount

Emphasizes the equality in amount.

a matching quantity

Implies the quantity is identical or perfectly aligned.

a corresponding quantity

Suggests a quantity that has a direct relationship or correspondence to something else.

a duplicate amount

Conveys that the amount is exactly the same.

an analogous quantity

Indicates similarity in function or appearance, not necessarily exact amount.

a commensurate quantity

Suggests a proportional relationship between the quantities.

a relative quantity

Indicates that the quantity is similar in relation to some reference point.

a parallel amount

Highlights the similarity in direction or trend between quantities.

FAQs

How can I use "a similar quantity" in a sentence?

Use "a similar quantity" to indicate that an amount is comparable to another. For example, "The recipe calls for two cups of flour; you'll need "a similar quantity" of sugar".

What can I say instead of "a similar quantity"?

You can use alternatives like "a comparable amount", "an equivalent quantity", or "a like amount" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a similar quantity" in formal writing?

Yes, "a similar quantity" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in scientific or technical contexts. It clearly conveys that two amounts are comparable without being overly verbose.

How does "a similar quantity" differ from "the same quantity"?

"A similar quantity" implies that the amounts are alike but not necessarily identical. "The same quantity", on the other hand, means the amounts are exactly equal. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the relationship you intend to convey.