are practically identical

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are practically identical" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two or more items that are very similar or nearly the same in characteristics or features. Example: "The two models of the smartphone are practically identical in terms of design and functionality."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Template and target sequences for the MHC and ELC are practically identical (>91% sequence identity) suggesting Modeller produces a reliable structure [ 96].

BMC Genomics

They are practically identical with British regulations".

The Guardian

All of these are practically identical with the received text.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In many respects, the TiVo (www.tivo.com) and ReplayTV (www.replaytv.com) are practically identical.

The New York Times - Tech

At a glance, the iPhone 4, 4S and 5 are practically identical.

The New York Times

They are practically identical in technique with the Limoges and other painted enamels of Europe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In "Eleventh Month," a highly animated and articulate sheet, the rich townsman with a parasol and the courtesan luring him are practically identical twins.

The New York Times - Arts

On the other hand, many of the scrolls are practically identical with the Masoretic text, which thus takes this recension back in history to pre-Christian times.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Chinese, Korean, and Japanese methods are practically identical in this respect, but the cultivation of the tree has been most systematic in Japan.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The explosive properties of ethylene glycol dinitrate are practically identical with those of nitroglycerin, and its low-freezing qualities are extremely good.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The logic of the banks is practically identical.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are practically identical", ensure that the context supports a claim of near-equivalence, not absolute identity. This nuance adds precision to your comparison.

Common error

Avoid using "are practically identical" when the items being compared have significant differences. Overstating their similarity can mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are practically identical" functions as a comparative descriptor, indicating a high degree of similarity between two or more subjects. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, affirming its grammatical correctness and practical applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are practically identical" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that two or more items are very similar. According to Ludwig, it appears frequently in scientific and encyclopedic contexts, as well as in news media. When writing, it's best to use this phrase when the differences between items are truly minor and do not significantly impact the overall comparison. Related phrases like "are virtually the same" or "are almost indistinguishable" can offer subtle variations in meaning, but the key is to ensure the chosen phrase accurately reflects the degree of similarity you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are virtually the same

Emphasizes nearness to being identical, differing slightly in intensity.

are almost indistinguishable

Focuses on the difficulty in telling the difference between the items.

are essentially equivalent

Highlights the functional equivalence despite possible superficial differences.

are effectively the same

Underscores the outcome or effect being the same.

are nearly alike

A more general term, indicating a high degree of similarity without implying complete equivalence.

are much the same

Implies similarity with slight variations, a more conversational tone.

are closely related

Indicates a strong connection or similarity, often used in scientific or academic contexts.

bear a close resemblance

Highlights the visual or superficial similarity between the subjects.

differ only slightly

Directly points out the minimal differences between the compared subjects.

present a similar picture

Suggests that the overall impression or outcome is highly comparable.

FAQs

What does "are practically identical" mean?

The phrase "are practically identical" means that two or more things are very similar, to the point where any differences between them are insignificant or negligible. It suggests near equivalence without claiming absolute sameness.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "are practically identical"?

Use "are practically identical" when comparing items that have a high degree of similarity, but may not be exactly the same. This is especially useful in technical, scientific, or analytical contexts where precision is important.

What can I say instead of "are practically identical"?

You can use alternatives like "are virtually the same", "are almost indistinguishable", or "are essentially equivalent" depending on the context.

How does "are practically identical" differ from "are identical"?

"Are identical" implies complete and absolute sameness in every aspect. "Are practically identical" suggests a very high degree of similarity, but allows for minor differences that do not significantly affect the comparison.