but the same as

USAGE SUMMARY

"but the same as" is a grammatically correct phrase that can be used in written English.
It is often used to compare things or ideas that may appear different but are actually similar in some way. Example: The new restaurant has a different menu, but the same quality as the old one.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

For example, an airline can own no planes in accounting terms, yet have long-term leases on them that are all but the same as ownership.

The Economist

That is bigger than America's state and local-government debt (18%) but the same as India's (25%).Not all of this 10 trillion yuan will go bad.

The Economist

Each mast uses a set of channels different from those allocated to the masts closest to it, but the same as others further away.

The Economist

Similarly, a SurveyUSA poll of Ohio had Mr. Obama three points ahead there – a decent result for him, but the same as in its previous poll of the state.

The New York Times

Back then I'm not sure how many first division clubs were in the League Cup because they didn't always enter it but, the same as with Bradford City now, it was a big deal we had reached the final.

The Guardian - Sport

The Nexus 9 has a 4 3 screen ratio, which is more square than the traditional 16:9 widescreen used by most other Android tablets and smartphones, but the same as Apple's iPad.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

There are limited raids in specific places but not the same as during the massacre.

The Guardian

That was a mind-blowing experience – but not the same as seeing Michael Jackson".

The Guardian - Music

He gave us a different look, but essentially the same as we were using.

The New York Times - Sports

"Life will go on, but not the same as it used to be," she said.

The New York Times

Good, but not the same as it was last season.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but the same as", ensure the contrasting element introduced by "but" is clear and directly relevant to the similarity being pointed out. This enhances clarity and avoids confusing the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "but the same as" to connect unrelated ideas simply because they share a single characteristic. The elements being compared should have a meaningful connection for the comparison to be effective and logical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but the same as" functions as a comparative conjunction. It connects two elements, highlighting a similarity between them while acknowledging a preceding difference or contrast. Ludwig examples showcase its role in drawing parallels across diverse subjects, such as accounting practices, government debt, or product features.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but the same as" serves as a comparative conjunction, linking two elements while emphasizing their similarity despite potential differences. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in both News & Media and Scientific contexts. The phrase functions to establish equivalence, qualify previous statements, and provide context. It's generally considered to have a neutral register, making it appropriate for a wide range of communication styles. Although some alternatives like "though identical to" exist, "but the same as" effectively conveys a sense of similarity in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

though virtually the same as

Emphasizes that the items are practically indistinguishable.

though identical to

Highlights the sameness more strongly than the contrast.

despite being uniform with

Focuses on the consistent sameness between two elements.

yet equivalent to

Emphasizes equivalence despite a preceding contrast.

even though comparable to

Suggests that items are worthy of comparison due to likeness.

however, mirroring

Focuses on the reflective similarity between two things.

albeit alike to

A slightly more formal way of expressing similarity.

in spite of resembling

Highlights the act of resembling each other, despite differences.

while being analogous to

Implies a more complex or structural similarity.

notwithstanding its similarity to

Acknowledges similarity despite potential differences.

FAQs

How can I use "but the same as" in a sentence?

Use "but the same as" to show similarity between two things, even though there might be a contrast. For example, "The new policy is different in its approach, but the same as the old one in its overall goals".

What phrases are similar to "but the same as"?

Alternatives include "yet equivalent to", "though identical to", or "virtually the same as". Choose the phrase that best fits the context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but the same as"?

While technically grammatically correct, starting a sentence directly with "but the same as" can sound awkward. It's better to integrate the phrase within a sentence to ensure a smoother flow. For example: "The results were unexpected, but the same as previous trials".

What's the difference between "but similar to" and "but the same as"?

"But similar to" indicates that two things share some characteristics but are not identical. On the other hand, "but the same as" implies a higher degree of equivalence. Consider using "yet equivalent to" as a valid alternative.