almost exactly the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "almost exactly the same" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when two items are very similar to each other, but not perfectly identical. For example, "This painting is almost exactly the same as the one I saw in the museum."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's almost exactly the same.

The Guardian - Music

MotoGP 15 is, unfortunately, almost exactly the same as 14.

Independent

Karen had said almost exactly the same thing.

The New Yorker

Labour split in almost exactly the same way.

The Guardian

In 1990, the number was almost exactly the same: 75%.

The Guardian

And France is offering almost exactly the same amount.

The New York Times

He has five others that are almost exactly the same.

The New Yorker

Weirdly, almost exactly the same but with marginally better hair.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It is almost exactly the same age as Rumi.

The Guardian - Books

The 2001 Yankees are in almost exactly the same situation.

The New York Times - Sports

Shaw uses almost exactly the same terms to describe Gibraltar.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, follow "almost exactly the same" with specific details about the minimal differences to ensure clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "almost exactly the same" when significant differences exist. Instead, opt for phrases like "somewhat similar" or "related to" to more accurately reflect the relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost exactly the same" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a very high degree of similarity. As Ludwig suggests, it indicates that the two things are very similar but not perfectly identical.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "almost exactly the same" is a grammatically sound and frequently used way to express a high degree of similarity between two or more items. According to Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and general conversation. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure the items being compared genuinely share significant similarities. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in describing comparable features or scenarios where minor differences don't negate the overall likeness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

virtually identical

Emphasizes a very close resemblance, bordering on complete identity.

nearly identical

Highlights the close similarity but acknowledges a slight difference.

practically the same

Indicates a similarity that is effective for most purposes, despite minor differences.

much the same

A more concise way of expressing substantial similarity.

substantially similar

Highlights that the main aspects are alike, even if details vary.

essentially the same

Focuses on the core elements being identical, overlooking superficial differences.

largely the same

Indicates the great part is alike, but with a slight differentiation in the remaining part.

almost indistinguishable

Stresses how difficult it is to tell the difference between two things.

tantamount to

Highlights an equivalence in effect or value, even if not in appearance.

akin to

Suggests a resemblance or similarity in quality or character.

FAQs

How can I use "almost exactly the same" in a sentence?

You can use "almost exactly the same" to describe two things that are very similar but not completely identical. For example, "The two versions of the software are "almost exactly the same", with only minor interface changes."

What phrases are similar to "almost exactly the same"?

Alternatives to "almost exactly the same" include "virtually identical", "nearly identical", or "practically the same". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "almost exactly the same" in formal writing?

Yes, "almost exactly the same" is suitable for formal writing, especially when precision is required. However, in very formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "substantially similar" or "essentially the same" for a more elevated tone.

What's the difference between "almost exactly the same" and "exactly the same"?

"Almost exactly the same" indicates a very high degree of similarity with minor differences, while "exactly the same" implies complete identity. Use "almost exactly the same" when there are subtle variations that are worth acknowledging.