almost like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "almost like that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a similarity to something previously mentioned, but with a slight difference or variation. Example: "The painting is almost like that one we saw in the gallery, but the colors are much brighter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

But it's almost like that because the device is called a phone, some are taking a different approach.

TechCrunch

Almost like a ramp marshall the guys with the orange sticks—it's almost like that.

Vice

"But because religion has constructed the language with which we describe existential wonder, it is almost like that is not our territory.

Huffington Post

"It's weird, but it's almost like that".

The Guardian - Music

"It's almost like that ocean doesn't exist.

The New York Times

There was a loud motorized rumble, almost like that of a generator.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

It was almost like, "Take that, Beach Boys!" No, not really... PH: They were connected with The Beach Boys.

Huffington Post

It's not just Spain, where it's almost still like that.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"This house feels almost museumlike, and I like that".

The New York Times

But that's almost like saying that all Americans are bad because some small fraction break laws and do bad things".

The Guardian

They are circular, so look almost like eyes, that can blink or wink.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "almost like that" to draw comparisons that aren't exact but share key characteristics. This adds nuance to your descriptions, acknowledging both similarity and difference.

Common error

Avoid using "almost like that" when the comparison is too weak or irrelevant. Ensure a genuine, recognizable resemblance exists to avoid confusing or misleading your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost like that" functions as a qualifier, indicating a similarity that is not exact but close. It is used to draw comparisons, as demonstrated by Ludwig, where many examples show its application in describing resemblances across diverse subjects.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "almost like that" is a commonly used phrase to indicate a resemblance that is not exact. According to Ludwig, it functions as a qualifier, helping to create relatable reference points and draw comparisons across various subjects. Predominantly found in News & Media, its neutral register makes it suitable for wide application. When using this phrase, ensure the comparison is meaningful and avoid overstating the similarity for clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearly like that

Replaces "almost" with "nearly", maintaining a similar sense of approximation.

pretty much like that

Adds "pretty much" for emphasis on the similarity, suggesting a close resemblance.

virtually like that

Substitutes "almost" with "virtually", implying that the similarity is so close as to be practically the same.

akin to that

Replaces the entire phrase with a more formal expression suggesting a connection or resemblance.

comparable to that

Indicates that the subject is similar enough to the reference to warrant comparison.

not unlike that

Uses a double negative to affirm a similarity, implying that the subject shares many characteristics with the reference.

somewhat similar to that

Emphasizes a partial similarity, rather than a complete likeness.

reminiscent of that

Implies that the subject evokes memories or associations of the reference, suggesting a more nuanced connection.

along the lines of that

Indicates that the subject follows a similar pattern or direction as the reference, rather than being identical.

in that ballpark

Uses an idiomatic expression to suggest that the subject falls within a range of possibilities similar to the reference.

FAQs

How can I use "almost like that" in a sentence?

You can use "almost like that" to draw a comparison that is not exact but shares significant similarities. For example, "The texture of this fabric is "almost like that" of silk, but it's slightly rougher."

What are some alternatives to "almost like that"?

Alternatives include "nearly like that", "pretty much like that", or "virtually like that", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "almost like that" and "exactly like that"?

Yes, "almost like that" implies a resemblance with some differences, while "exactly like that" suggests complete identity. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the degree of similarity you intend to communicate.

When is it inappropriate to use "almost like that"?

It's inappropriate if the comparison is too vague or irrelevant. Ensure the similarity is clear and meaningful to avoid confusing your reader. Overusing the phrase can also make your writing sound repetitive, so vary your language with alternatives when appropriate.