akin to a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "akin to a" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is similar or comparable to something else. For example: - Playing the guitar is akin to learning a new language. - His behavior was akin to that of a child throwing a tantrum. - The movie's plot was akin to a classic fairytale.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

More akin to a W.T.O.

The New York Times

"They are akin to a political appendix.

The New York Times

Death is "oddly akin to a birth".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The fourth division is considered akin to a private militia.

The Economist

"We became akin to a Soviet-era paper".

The New Yorker

A scanner is somewhat akin to a photocopier.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Its power is akin to a punch in the face.

Independent

He possesses something akin to a soccer sixth sense.

The New York Times - Sports

It is an akin to a progressive system of taxation.

The New York Times

His response was akin to a religious conversion.

The New York Times

Wilson sees surgery as akin to a military campaign.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "akin to a", ensure the comparison is clear and relevant to avoid confusing the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "akin to a" excessively in informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "similar to" or "like" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "akin to a" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun by indicating a similarity or resemblance to something else. As seen in Ludwig, it is used to draw parallels between distinct concepts, providing a deeper understanding through comparison.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "akin to a" is a useful tool for drawing comparisons and highlighting similarities between different concepts. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedia contexts. When writing, remember that while "akin to a" adds a degree of formality, simpler alternatives may be better suited for informal settings. Be mindful of clarity to ensure that comparisons are relevant and understandable to your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similar to a

Expresses resemblance but is a more direct and common alternative.

comparable to a

Highlights that the items being compared share similar characteristics.

analogous to a

Suggests a more structural or functional similarity between the items.

resembling a

Implies a visual or superficial similarity.

like a

A simpler and more informal way to express similarity.

of a similar nature to a

A more formal and elaborate way of indicating similarity.

in the same vein as a

Suggests a similarity in style, approach, or spirit.

on par with a

Indicates equivalence or equality in quality or status.

equivalent to a

Implies a complete and direct equality.

corresponding to a

Highlights a matching or parallel relationship.

FAQs

What does "akin to a" mean?

The phrase "akin to a" means similar or comparable to something. It's used to draw a comparison between two different things, highlighting their shared qualities or characteristics.

How can I use "akin to a" in a sentence?

You can use "akin to a" to make a comparison, such as "His behavior was "similar to a" child throwing a tantrum" or "The experience was "comparable to a" dream".

What are some alternatives to "akin to a"?

You can use alternatives such as "similar to a", "comparable to a", "analogous to a", or "like a", depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "akin to a" formal or informal?

"Akin to a" is generally considered a more formal expression. In informal contexts, using "like a" or "similar to a" might be more appropriate.