apples to apples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apples to apples" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe a comparison of two similar objects. For example, you could say, "Comparing the prices of these two items is like comparing apples to apples," meaning that the items are similar enough to be priced similarly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Think Apples to Apples meets "Family Feud".

The New Yorker

•     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

"It's not a real apples to apples comparison," he said.

The New York Times

Similar accounting standards allows us to compare apples to apples.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Experts say making apples-to-apples comparisons is difficult.

The New York Times

But the apples-to-apples comparison is that the I.M.F.

The New Yorker

"It was more of an apples-to-apples comparison".

The New York Times

First, it's not an apples-to-apples comparison.

The New Yorker

It's not a true apples-to-apples comparison," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apples to apples", ensure that the items being compared are genuinely similar in relevant aspects. For instance, when comparing financial products, consider factors like interest rates, fees, and terms to ensure an accurate assessment.

Common error

Don't use "apples to apples" when the items being compared have fundamental differences. For example, comparing the sales figures of a startup to those of an established corporation is not an "apples to apples" comparison because they operate under vastly different conditions.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic expression "apples to apples" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which a comparison is made. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples, emphasizing the need for fair and equivalent comparisons.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "apples to apples" is a common idiomatic expression used to emphasize the importance of making fair and equivalent comparisons. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and demonstrates its usage across various contexts, primarily in news, wiki and scientific domains. It highlights the necessity of comparing similar items to draw accurate conclusions. The phrase functions as an adverbial, modifying how a comparison is made. Related phrases include "like-for-like comparison" and "fair comparison". When using "apples to apples", ensure that the items being compared are genuinely similar; avoid comparing dissimilar items, as this undermines the validity of the comparison.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

like-for-like comparison

Stresses that the items being compared are directly comparable.

standardized comparison

Focuses on using a consistent and established method for comparison.

fair comparison

Emphasizes the impartiality and justice in the comparison.

equivalent comparison

Highlights that the compared items are of equal value or function.

comparable basis

Focuses on having a similar foundation or standard for comparison.

equal footing

Suggests that all items are treated the same way during the comparison.

parallel comparison

Indicates that the comparison is done side-by-side, ensuring fairness.

consistent criteria

Highlights the importance of applying the same standards to all items.

balanced comparison

Highlights the impartiality and lack of bias in the comparison process.

uniform standards

Emphasizes the use of standardized measures for the comparison.

FAQs

How can I use "apples to apples" in a sentence?

You can use "apples to apples" to emphasize the importance of making a fair comparison between similar things. For example, "To accurately assess their performance, we need to ensure we're making an "apples to apples" comparison by considering the same metrics for each employee".

What does it mean to compare "apples to apples"?

Comparing "apples to apples" means comparing things that are similar or equivalent to ensure a fair and accurate assessment. It implies that the items being compared share enough common characteristics to make the comparison meaningful and relevant. In short, the opposite of comparing apples and oranges.

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

Alternatives to "apples to apples" include phrases like "like-for-like comparison", "fair comparison", or making a comparison on a "comparable basis". These phrases all convey the idea of ensuring that the items being compared are similar in relevant aspects.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "apples to apples"?

It's appropriate to use the phrase "apples to apples" when you want to emphasize the need for a fair and accurate comparison by ensuring that the items being compared are similar in nature and have enough common characteristics to make the comparison meaningful. It's particularly useful in situations where there's a risk of comparing dissimilar things and drawing inaccurate conclusions.