an appropriate comparison

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an appropriate comparison" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing whether a comparison made between two or more things is suitable or fitting in a given context. Example: "In analyzing the two novels, I found that an appropriate comparison would be to examine their themes of isolation and identity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's not an appropriate comparison.

The New York Times - Sports

Take your pick as to which is an appropriate comparison.

The Guardian - Film

But this may not be an appropriate comparison.

University of California, Berkeley

"I don't think it's an appropriate comparison," he said.

The New York Times

"I'm sure Hugh Laurie's success with House is an appropriate comparison," says Catherine Tate.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Diclofenac is an appropriate comparison drug for the study because it is so widely used worldwide, he said.

The New York Times

Its influence on academic careers is impossible to determine, because defining an appropriate comparison group is not feasible.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Even the Vatican spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, tried to walk the cat back: "I don't think it's an appropriate comparison".

The New York Times

It's an appropriate comparison because there are many, including Hern, who believe that although activists like Horsley are not pulling the trigger, they are bound up with the killers.

The Guardian

Statistics provide powerful tools for understanding the world around us, but the value of any analysis invariably comes down to choosing a useful statistic and an appropriate comparison group.

The New York Times - Sports

It allows an estimate of the structure-borne emission of resiliently mounted machines and an appropriate comparison of the structure-borne "noisiness" of practical installations.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an appropriate comparison", ensure that the items being compared share enough relevant characteristics to make the comparison meaningful and avoid misleading conclusions.

Common error

Avoid drawing overly strong conclusions from "an appropriate comparison" based on superficial similarities. Focus on the core aspects of the comparison and acknowledge any limitations or differences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an appropriate comparison" functions as a determiner phrase modifying the noun "comparison". It serves to specify that the comparison being made is suitable, relevant, and justified within the context. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in academic, scientific, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

28%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an appropriate comparison" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a comparison that is relevant, suitable, and well-justified. As Ludwig AI points out, it appears frequently in scientific and academic contexts, indicating its utility in formal analysis. To ensure effective use, make sure the items being compared share meaningful characteristics. Alternatives include phrases like "a fitting analogy" or "a suitable parallel", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fitting analogy

Replaces "comparison" with "analogy" emphasizing the similarity between two things, particularly for explanation.

a suitable parallel

Substitutes "comparison" with "parallel", highlighting a correspondence between two things.

a relevant contrast

Focuses on the differences rather than similarities but maintains the idea of a considered juxtaposition.

a valid equivalence

Emphasizes that the comparison holds true under scrutiny and is logically sound.

a justifiable correlation

Suggests that there's a demonstrable relationship making the comparison reasonable.

an apt juxtaposition

Highlights the act of placing two things side by side for comparison, implying a particularly fitting arrangement.

a well-founded likeness

Indicates that the comparison is based on solid reasons and shared characteristics.

a defensible equation

Presents the comparison as something that can be supported and defended with evidence.

a logical connection

Highlights the rational link between the things being compared, making the comparison understandable.

a fair assessment

Shifts the focus to the evaluation aspect of comparison, implying impartiality and accuracy.

FAQs

How can I use "an appropriate comparison" in a sentence?

You can use "an appropriate comparison" to introduce a comparison that is relevant and fitting for the context, such as, "In evaluating these two approaches, "an appropriate comparison" would be to consider their long-term sustainability".

What are some alternatives to using "an appropriate comparison"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a fitting analogy", "a suitable parallel", or "a relevant contrast", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes a comparison "an appropriate comparison"?

A comparison is considered "an appropriate comparison" when the items being compared share relevant characteristics and the comparison serves a useful purpose in illuminating a particular point or understanding.

How do I ensure my comparison is "an appropriate comparison"?

To ensure your comparison is "an appropriate comparison", carefully consider the similarities and differences between the items being compared, and ensure that the comparison is relevant and meaningful in the given context. Avoid comparisons that are misleading or based on superficial similarities.