apple to apples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apple to apples" is not correct; the correct expression is "apples to apples." You can use it when comparing two similar items or situations to highlight their similarities
Example: "When evaluating the two proposals, we need to ensure we are making an apples to apples comparison to get an accurate assessment."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It also will allow you to have a better chance of having an apple to apple comparison of different systems.

Metal Finishing

•     Make fewer "apples to apples" comparisons.

The New Yorker

Make fewer "apples to apples" comparisons.

The New Yorker

Those familiar with "Apples to Apples" will recognise the rules.

The Economist

Similar accounting standards allows us to compare apples to apples.

The New York Times

Players who come in ready to deal with adversity, apples to apples, are ready to win".

The New York Times

But if you want to compare apples to apples, the report does not quite add up.

The New York Times

"You have to make sure you're comparing apples to apples," he said.

The New York Times

Rivals like Mattel are doing the same with games like Apples to Apples.

The New York Times

"It's not apples to apples," said Dianna Boyce, a spokeswoman for the Indianapolis host committee.

The New York Times - Sports

It should be cautioned that the comparisons are not quite apples to apples.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use the correct form, "apples to apples", to ensure grammatical accuracy and clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "apple to apples". The idiom is "apples to apples", emphasizing a comparison between multiple, similar items, not a single one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apple to apples" is an incorrect form of the idiom. The correct form, "apples to apples", functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, clarifying how a comparison should be made. As Ludwig AI points out, the correct form is "apples to apples".

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "apple to apples" is grammatically incorrect; the correct form is "apples to apples". This idiom is used to describe a comparison between similar items, ensuring a fair and accurate assessment. As Ludwig AI notes, using the correct form, "apples to apples", is crucial for maintaining clarity and credibility in writing. Alternatives such as "like for like" or "similar items" can be used for variety. Remember to avoid the singular form to maintain grammatical accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

comparing similar items

Highlights the act of contrasting things that are alike.

like for like comparison

Focuses on a direct comparison of equivalent items, emphasizing fairness.

equivalent comparison

Underscores the equality and fairness in the comparison.

fair comparison

Emphasizes impartiality and equal footing in the comparison.

comparing on equal terms

Focuses on ensuring both items are judged by the same criteria.

assessing equitably

Highlights the just and unbiased evaluation of similar items.

evaluating consistently

Focuses on using the same standards throughout the evaluation.

uniform assessment

Describes a standardized and consistent method of evaluation.

apples and oranges

This phrase describes comparing two things that are fundamentally different.

apples to oranges

Expresses comparing dissimilar things instead of similar ones, highlighting differences.

FAQs

How to use the phrase "apples to apples" correctly?

Use "apples to apples" to describe a comparison made between like or similar things. For example, "We need to make an apples to apples comparison to evaluate these proposals fairly".

What does "apples to apples" mean?

The idiom "apples to apples" means comparing similar items or situations. It ensures a fair and accurate assessment by avoiding discrepancies.

Which is correct, "apple to apples" or "apples to apples"?

"Apples to apples" is the correct and commonly used form. "Apple to apples" is grammatically incorrect.

What can I say instead of "apples to apples"?

You can use alternatives like "like for like", "similar items", or "on equal terms" depending on the context.