bear a close resemblance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bear a close resemblance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two things that look similar or have similar characteristics. Example: "The two paintings bear a close resemblance, making it difficult to determine which one is the original."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Thus, the heads of some terminal ornaments bear a close resemblance to those of certain Siberian works.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The symptoms also bear a close resemblance to those observed in the earliest stages of Alzheimer's Disease.

The Guardian

Running concurrently with the museum's 150th-anniversary celebration of Gustav Klimt, it includes many photographs by Kuehn that bear a close resemblance to paintings by Klimt.

The New York Times - Arts

Her story hasn't gone unnoticed by Helen Kirkham, a mother of four from Norwich, whose own circumstances bear a close resemblance to Mangano's.

The Guardian

Some of Cook's prints of downtown Manhattan bear a close resemblance to those of Lozowick and are beautiful examples of Art Deco/moderne cityscapes.

The New York Times

These consolatory visions bear a close resemblance to Lutyens' later designs for the Viceroy's residence in New Delhi, the new capital of India under British rule.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

The armature bears a close resemblance to the DynaTac.

The New York Times

(Police say it bore a close resemblance to a semi-automatic pistol).

The Economist

He bears a close resemblance to Ricky Gervais in The Office, though Gunt is permitted more obscenities.

The Guardian - Books

Pakistani officials said one suspect bore a close resemblance to Mr. Zubaydah.

The New York Times

If I'm not mistaken, it also bears a close resemblance to "growing".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bear a close resemblance", ensure that the comparison is meaningful and specific. Provide context to clarify the nature of the similarity.

Common error

Avoid using "bear a close resemblance" if the similarity is superficial or coincidental. Use weaker terms like "vaguely similar" or "reminiscent of" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bear a close resemblance" functions as a comparative descriptor. It serves to highlight the similarities between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, often appearing in descriptive contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bear a close resemblance" is a versatile and widely used expression for indicating significant similarities between two or more subjects. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for use in various contexts. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources, it maintains a neutral register and serves to draw attention to shared features. To enhance writing, ensure the comparison is meaningful and avoid overstating the resemblance if the similarity is superficial. Alternatives like "closely resemble" or "look similar" can be used for simplicity or when a more informal tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closely resemble

Omits the verb "bear" for a more direct comparison.

look very similar to

Replaces "bear a close resemblance" with a more straightforward and common expression.

have a strong similarity to

Substitutes "resemblance" with "similarity" and adjusts the phrasing.

exhibit a marked likeness to

Uses more formal vocabulary to convey a noticeable similarity.

share many features with

Focuses on shared characteristics rather than overall resemblance.

are strikingly alike

Emphasizes the degree of similarity, making it very noticeable.

correspond closely with

Indicates a high degree of agreement or matching.

have much in common with

Highlights the shared attributes without necessarily implying a visual resemblance.

mirror each other

Suggests a very strong and direct similarity, like a reflection.

duplicate features

Highlights replicated attributes and traits

FAQs

How can I use "bear a close resemblance" in a sentence?

Use "bear a close resemblance" to indicate that two things share significant similar characteristics or features. For example, "The new model "bears a close resemblance" to its predecessor."

What's a simpler way to say "bear a close resemblance"?

You can use phrases like "look similar", "closely resemble", or "are alike" as simpler alternatives depending on the context.

Is it better to say "bear a close resemblance" or "have a close resemblance"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey the same meaning. "Bear a close resemblance" might be considered slightly more formal.

What is the difference between "bear a close resemblance" and "bear a striking resemblance"?

"Bear a close resemblance" suggests a notable similarity, while "bear a striking resemblance" indicates a particularly strong and noticeable similarity.