almost like this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "almost like this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when making a comparison or drawing a similarity to something that is not exactly the same but resembles it closely. Example: "The painting style of this artist is almost like this one, with similar brush strokes and color palettes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

When they show up and you ask them to take off their shoes, it's almost like, 'This might not be the one for us.' " Leonard Steinberg, who, like Mr. Sukenik, works for Prudential Douglas Elliman, said he once thought the request was "anal-retentive".

The New York Times

So it's almost like this built-in right that you can kind of blur the line of the truth a little bit here and there and make people wonder, "Wait a minute -- did that really happen?

Huffington Post

"It was almost like this intangible thing.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's almost like this can't be real.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's almost like this was just one more match".

The New York Times - Sports

"It's almost like this is not real," Fernandez said.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Brody almost likes this improvised piece more than the "refined pieces" in his exhibition, because it was him purely having fun and playing around.

Vice

It was almost like graduate school, only this time I did not have to worry about defending my thesis again!

Science Magazine

"This is almost like show business," said Giuseppe Grecco, chairman of Lamborghini.

The New York Times

This sounds almost like, "What?

Huffington Post

It's almost like by this point, this Smooth Jazz Cruise ensemble is a family, isn't it.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "almost like this", ensure the context makes the comparison clear to the reader. The connection between the two things being compared should be evident.

Common error

Avoid using "almost like this" if the comparison is too vague or doesn't add meaningful insight. Ensure the comparison clarifies rather than confuses the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost like this" functions as a comparative, drawing a parallel between two entities or situations. As noted by Ludwig, it suggests a resemblance without being an exact match. It's used to help the audience grasp something new or abstract.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

12%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "almost like this" serves as a comparative tool, used to draw similarities between concepts or situations that aren't perfectly identical. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and sees frequent use across diverse sources, especially in News & Media. While suitable for general use, more formal contexts might benefit from alternatives such as "similar to this" or "reminiscent of this". Be cautious not to overuse vague comparisons. With this guide, you're well-equipped to effectively use the phrase or choose appropriate alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similar to this

Indicates a general similarity or likeness.

reminiscent of this

Emphasizes that something recalls or brings to mind something else.

much the same as this

Emphasizes the high degree of similarity.

akin to this

Suggests a closer, more fundamental similarity.

comparable to this

Highlights the ability to compare the two things directly.

virtually identical to this

Highlights that there are few or no important differences.

not unlike this

Uses a double negative to subtly point out the similarities.

bears resemblance to this

Formally indicates that there are noticeable similarities.

in a similar vein to this

Suggests that the two things share a common characteristic or style.

along the lines of this

Indicates a general similarity in concept or approach.

FAQs

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

You can use "almost like this" to make a comparison that is not exact but suggests a resemblance. For example, "The feeling of weightlessness was "almost like this" dream I had once."

What phrases are similar to "almost like this"?

Alternatives to "almost like this" include "similar to this", "reminiscent of this", or "akin to this". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "almost like this" suitable for formal writing?

While "almost like this" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives such as "comparable to this" or "bears resemblance to this" might be preferable in academic or professional contexts.

When should I avoid using "almost like this"?

Avoid using "almost like this" when a more precise comparison is possible or when the comparison does not add clarity to your writing. In these cases, a more direct or specific phrase would be more effective.