are not identical

USAGE SUMMARY

"are not identical" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing two or more items that are not the same. For example, "These two paintings are not identical, but they do share several similar features."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They are not identical.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But they are not identical.

The New York Times - Health

The two are not identical.

The Guardian - Business

The statues are not identical.

Cornell University

The symptoms, though similar, are not identical.

The New York Times

They are not identical at all.

The New York Times - Health

They overlap, but are not identical.

The Washington Post

But their core competencies are not identical.

MIT Technology Review

These examples are not identical to the T.G.I. Friday's story.

The New York Times

That they are not identical goes without saying.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Of course, these are not identical methods, but to me they seemed eerily similar.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are not identical", ensure you clarify the specific aspects in which the items differ to provide a clear understanding for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "are not identical" when the differences are negligible. Instead, consider using phrases like "are similar" or "have minor variations" to maintain accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not identical" functions as a comparative statement used to highlight the lack of complete similarity between two or more entities. It indicates that while there might be resemblances, key differences exist. Ludwig confirms the correct usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

40%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are not identical" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote differences between entities, even when similarities exist. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as a comparative statement with a neutral register, making it suitable for diverse contexts from news and media to scientific and academic writing. While alternatives such as "are not the same" and "differ from each other" can be used, "are not identical" emphasizes a more precise lack of correspondence. Remember to specify the key differences when using this phrase to ensure clarity and avoid overstating minor variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are not the same

Emphasizes a lack of sameness rather than a lack of precise correspondence.

differ from each other

Focuses on the concept of variance and dissimilarity between multiple entities.

are distinct

Highlights clear and recognizable differences, often in categorization or essence.

are not equivalent

Stresses a lack of functional or quantitative parity.

are disparate

Suggests a wide divergence or incongruity.

vary in nature

Indicates a difference in inherent characteristics or properties.

contrast with each other

Emphasizes a notable opposition or divergence when compared.

do not match

Implies a lack of correspondence or alignment, typically in features or details.

are unlike

Highlights the absence of resemblance or similarity.

diverge in attributes

Focuses on differences in specific qualities or characteristics.

FAQs

How can I use "are not identical" in a sentence?

Use "are not identical" to point out differences between two or more things. For example, "While the twins look alike, their personalities "are not identical"."

What's a formal alternative to "are not identical"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "are not equivalent" or "are distinct" to convey a similar meaning with a higher degree of formality.

What is the difference between "are not identical" and "are different"?

"Are not identical" implies a precise lack of correspondence, while "are different" is a more general term indicating any form of dissimilarity. Using ""are not identical"" suggests a closer comparison where subtle differences matter.

Can "are not identical" be used for abstract concepts?

Yes, ""are not identical"" can effectively compare abstract concepts. For instance, "Justice and revenge "are not identical"; one seeks fairness, the other, retribution."