are nearly the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are nearly the same" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that two or more things are very similar or almost identical in some way. Example: "The results from both experiments are nearly the same, suggesting that our hypothesis was correct."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now they are nearly the same.

The New York Times - Sports

The MS/PhD and PhD programs are nearly the same.

University of California, Berkeley

Typically, in women, the two fingers of the right hand are nearly the same length.

University of California, Berkeley

Two of the kids are nearly the same age but have different mothers.

The New York Times - Books

Corrosion effects on fatigue life for both steel wire and stay cables are nearly the same.

International Journal of Fatigue

Its prices, envelopes and movie selection are nearly the same as Netflix's.

The New York Times

"We do not charge rates that are nearly the same as payday lenders.

Independent

But today the rates are nearly the same, above 18 per 100,000 people.

The New York Times

The increases in the number of uninsured are nearly the same.

The New York Times

Short-term interest rates are higher now, but long-term rates are nearly the same.

The New York Times

Riggie Medina and Christian Alaniz are nearly the same age, 18 and 19.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing multiple items, ensure the characteristics you're evaluating are clearly defined before stating that they "are nearly the same".

Common error

Avoid using "are nearly the same" when there are significant or consequential differences. Using more nuanced language like "share some similarities" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are nearly the same" functions as a comparative descriptor, indicating a high degree of similarity between two or more entities. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

32%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are nearly the same" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to express a high degree of similarity. Ludwig AI analysis, supported by numerous real-world examples, confirms that it's frequently used in diverse fields, including science, news, and academia. While it doesn't imply absolute identity, it suggests that any differences are minor. When using the phrase, ensure the context supports the assertion of close similarity and be mindful of potential overstatements. Consider alternatives like "are almost identical" or "are substantially similar" for nuanced expression. In summary, "are nearly the same" is a reliable and effective tool for conveying resemblance, provided it is used judiciously and accurately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are almost identical

Emphasizes a very high degree of similarity, suggesting only minor differences.

are virtually identical

Highlights that any differences are so small as to be practically nonexistent.

are substantially similar

Indicates a significant overlap in characteristics or qualities.

are largely the same

Suggests that the primary aspects are equivalent, though some minor variations may exist.

are closely related

Implies a strong connection or resemblance, often used in scientific or familial contexts.

are much alike

A more informal way of expressing similarity, suitable for general conversation.

bear a close resemblance

Focuses on the visual or superficial similarities between two things.

are comparable

Highlights that items can be fairly compared, often implying some degree of similarity.

are of a similar nature

Emphasizes that the fundamental characteristics or essence is alike

are on par with

Expresses that something meets the required standard or is equal in status or quality.

FAQs

How can I use "are nearly the same" in a sentence?

Use "are nearly the same" to indicate a high degree of similarity between two or more items. For example, "The test results from both groups "are nearly the same", suggesting the treatment had a consistent effect".

What can I say instead of "are nearly the same"?

You can use alternatives like "are almost identical", "are virtually identical", or "are substantially similar" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "are nearly the same" or "are exactly the same"?

"Are exactly the same" implies perfect equivalence, while ""are nearly the same"" suggests a high degree of similarity with minor differences. Choose the phrase that best reflects the actual relationship between the items being compared.

What's the difference between "are nearly the same" and "are similar"?

"Are nearly the same" suggests a closer resemblance than "are similar". "Are similar" indicates some shared qualities, but the degree of likeness may be less pronounced.