be akin to

USAGE SUMMARY

"be akin to" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It means to be similar or related to something. Example: The feeling of nostalgia that washes over me whenever I visit my childhood home is akin to being transported back in time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Such abnegation would be akin to abdication.

The New York Times

Beating Federer would be akin to beating Nadal last year.

The New York Times - Sports

This will be akin to their 1948 wipe-out.

Independent

His athleticism is said to be akin to Pete Sampras's.

The New York Times - Sports

Rather, their status would be akin to that of children.

The New York Times

Here's what would be akin to her facing a medical emergency: your facing a medical emergency.

The New York Times - Magazine

It can be said to be akin to seeing images of torture.

The New York Times

In Bangladesh, BRAC is large enough and comprehensive enough to be akin to a parallel government.

The New York Times

For a Dutchman to say he was bored with beer would be akin to knocking Rembrandt.

The Economist

It would be akin to the buildup that precedes the Super Bowl.

The New York Times

The way he sees it, changing the race would be akin to a philosophical defeat.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be akin to" to draw a comparison that highlights a significant similarity, often to clarify or explain a concept to your audience. For instance, "The experience of learning a new language can be akin to discovering a new world."

Common error

While grammatically sound, "be akin to" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "be like" or "be similar to" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be akin to" functions as a linking phrase, establishing a relationship of similarity or resemblance between two subjects. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used. Examples show it connecting abstract concepts, concrete objects, and experiences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be akin to" is a grammatically correct linking phrase used to express similarity between two subjects. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. It's prevalent in news and media, science, and encyclopedias, indicating a formal to neutral register. When writing, use it to make a strong comparison for a clearer understanding, but avoid overuse in casual contexts. Alternatives include "be similar to" and "resemble". Remember that overuse in informal settings can come across as overly formal. It's crucial to match the register to the specific writing context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be similar to

This alternative offers a more straightforward and common way to express resemblance.

be comparable to

This emphasizes the aspect of being able to draw comparisons between two things.

be analogous to

Suggests a more complex or structural similarity, often used in technical contexts.

be equivalent to

This suggests that something is essentially the same or has equal value.

resemble

A single verb that captures the essence of looking or being alike.

be like

A simpler, more informal way of expressing similarity.

bear resemblance to

Highlights the act of sharing similar qualities or features.

parallel

Implies a direct correspondence or similarity in development or form.

approximate to

Suggests a degree of similarity without being exactly the same.

have something in common with

Emphasizes shared attributes or characteristics.

FAQs

How can I use "be akin to" in a sentence?

You can use "be akin to" to compare two things that share significant similarities. For example, "For him, writing a novel is be akin to building a house, brick by brick."

What can I say instead of "be akin to"?

You can use alternatives like "be similar to", "be comparable to", or "resemble" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "be akin to" and "be similar to"?

"Be akin to" often suggests a deeper or more fundamental similarity than "be similar to", which can refer to more superficial resemblances.

Is "be akin to" formal or informal?

"Be akin to" is generally considered more formal than simpler alternatives like "be like" or "be similar to". It is suitable for academic, professional, and journalistic writing.