are similar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'are similar' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase when referring to two or more things that share features or characteristics in common. For example, "The climate in both London and Paris are similar."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Their pedigrees are similar.

The New York Times - Sports

(Human noses are similar).

The Economist

Yet they are similar.

The Economist

They are similar victims".

The New York Times - Magazine

Houseguests are similar.

The New York Times

There are similar tidbits.

The New Yorker

Perhaps they are similar.

The New York Times

The triggers are similar.

The New York Times - Health

Fares are similar.

Independent

Verizon's prices are similar.

The New York Times

Otherwise, they are similar.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are similar", ensure that you specify the aspects in which the subjects are alike to provide clarity and context to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "are similar" without clarifying the basis of the similarity. Being specific enhances understanding and prevents misinterpretation. Instead of saying "These products are similar", specify what makes them similar: "These products are similar in terms of price and functionality."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are similar" functions as a linking verb phrase that connects the subject to a predicate adjective, indicating a state of resemblance or likeness between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

17%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are similar" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate a resemblance or likeness between two or more subjects. As Ludwig AI affirms, this phrase is correct and widely applicable across various contexts. Analysis of usage patterns reveals that it is particularly common in "News & Media", "Science", and "Wiki", rendering it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Remember to specify the aspects of similarity to enhance clarity, and avoid vague comparisons. For more formal alternatives, consider phrases like "bear resemblance" or "share characteristics".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are alike

This alternative is a more direct and simple way of expressing that two or more things have similar qualities.

have commonalities

This alternative focuses on the shared aspects or points of agreement between two or more things.

are comparable

This alternative suggests that two or more things can be compared due to their similarities.

share characteristics

This alternative highlights the common features or attributes that two or more things possess.

have parallels

This alternative highlights the existence of similar aspects or features that run side by side.

exhibit similarities

This alternative emphasizes the presence and display of similar qualities or features.

bear resemblance

This alternative emphasizes a visual similarity or likeness between two or more things.

correspond closely

This alternative emphasizes the alignment and agreement between two or more things.

show affinity

This alternative indicates a natural liking or connection based on similar qualities.

match up

This alternative suggests that two or more things align or correspond with each other.

FAQs

How can I use "are similar" in a sentence?

You can use "are similar" to compare two or more things that share common characteristics. For example, "The symptoms of the flu and the common cold are similar.".

What's a more formal way to say "are similar"?

Formal alternatives include "bear resemblance", "share characteristics", or "have commonalities", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "is similar" instead of "are similar"?

No, "is similar" is used when comparing a single item to another, while "are similar" is used when comparing two or more items. For example, "This approach is similar to that one", but "These approaches are similar".

What's the difference between "are similar" and "are identical"?

"Are similar" implies that there are shared characteristics but also some differences, while "are identical" means that the items "are the same" in every aspect.