are not the same

USAGE SUMMARY

'are not the same' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe two different things that are not the same. For example, 'Apples and oranges are not the same.'.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

The pubs are not the same.

Independent

We are not the same person.

The New York Times

All disabilities are not the same.

The New York Times

But the two are not the same.

Independent

Sanctions are not the same as discipline.

Independent

"But they are not the same thing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

"Things aren't the same.

The New York Times - Sports

Things aren't the same now.

The New York Times - Sports

Those aren't the same thing.

The New York Times

Marines and soldiers aren't the same.

The New York Times

Glass and pixels aren't the same.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are not the same" to clearly distinguish between two or more concepts, items, or situations to avoid confusion. For instance, clarify that "correlation and causation are not the same" when discussing statistical analysis.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because two things share some similarities, they are effectively interchangeable in all contexts. Always consider the specific nuances that make them distinct, even if superficially similar.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are not the same" functions as a predicate adjective, asserting a quality of difference between two or more subjects. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase is used to distinguish between concepts, objects, or situations, emphasizing their non-equivalence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

20%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are not the same" is a versatile and commonly used expression to emphasize differences between entities, preventing potential misunderstandings. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news articles, academic texts, and general discussions. While alternatives like "are dissimilar" or "lack equivalence" exist, "are not the same" provides a straightforward and easily understandable way to highlight distinctions, making it a valuable tool in clear and effective communication. Remember to consider the specific nuances that make items distinct to avoid oversimplification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Are distinct

A simple and direct way of stating that things are clearly different.

Are dissimilar

A more formal way of saying that things are not alike.

Differ from each other

Emphasizes the distinct characteristics that separate two or more things.

Do not equate

Focuses on the lack of a direct relationship or correspondence.

Lack equivalence

Highlights the absence of equal value or status between items.

Vary in nature

Stresses the differences in fundamental qualities or characteristics.

Diverge significantly

Implies that things started similarly but have moved apart in character or development.

Bear no resemblance

Indicates a complete absence of similarity in appearance or qualities.

Stand apart

Highlights the unique qualities that make something distinct from others.

Cannot be interchanged

Highlights that the item are not suitable to be the substitute of the other.

FAQs

What does "are not the same" mean?

The phrase "are not the same" indicates that two or more items, concepts, or situations are different and should not be considered equivalent. It emphasizes a distinction between them.

How can I use "are not the same" in a sentence?

You can use "are not the same" to clarify differences. For example: "Although they look similar, these two models "are not the same" in terms of performance."

What's a formal alternative to "are not the same"?

In formal writing, you could use phrases like "are dissimilar" or "lack equivalence" to convey a similar meaning with a more sophisticated tone.

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

While both phrases indicate a distinction, "are not the same" often implies a stronger sense of non-equivalence, suggesting that the items should not be confused or treated as interchangeable. "Are different" simply points out that they possess distinct qualities.