close resemblance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close resemblance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that looks very similar to something else. Example: "The painting bears a close resemblance to the original masterpiece."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A Close Resemblance.

Columbia University

All three responses are showing close resemblance.

AEU - International Journal of Electronics and Communications

The armature bears a close resemblance to the DynaTac.

The New York Times

Politics and fashion have always had a close resemblance.

The New Yorker

9 The situation bears close resemblance to what Judge Learned Hand said on another occasion.

Cornell University

The results of this comparison show a close resemblance between simulation model and real world system.

Control Engineering Practice

I have come to realise that it bears a very close resemblance to the first".

Independent

Perhaps the reason is… Politics and fashion have always had a close resemblance.

The New Yorker

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

The Economist

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

The Economist

Poxviruses are structurally more complex than simple bacteria, despite their close resemblance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "close resemblance" to describe similarities between items where the likeness is significant and noteworthy. For example, "The new model bears a close resemblance to its predecessor."

Common error

Avoid using "close resemblance" when the similarity is superficial or minor. Using "slight similarity" or "passing resemblance" may be more accurate if the items are not strongly alike.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close resemblance" functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb like 'bear', 'have', or 'show'. It describes the degree of similarity between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI explains, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

37%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close resemblance" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase that denotes a significant similarity between two entities. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. It is most commonly found in scientific literature and news reports, reflecting its utility in describing similarities in a clear and precise manner. When writing, remember to use "close resemblance" when the similarity is substantial and noteworthy. For situations with weaker similarities, consider using alternatives like "passing resemblance". The phrase carries a neutral tone, leaning toward formal, and is well-suited for professional and academic writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

striking similarity

Emphasizes an impressive and noticeable likeness.

marked resemblance

Highlights a significant and clear similarity.

strong similarity

Indicates a powerful and evident likeness.

near likeness

Focuses on the almost identical appearance or nature.

great similarity

Implies a considerable amount of shared qualities or features.

close parallel

Suggests a similarity in development or form.

significant correspondence

Highlights an important similarity or connection.

evident similarity

Indicates that the similarity is easily seen or understood.

substantial overlap

Focuses on the shared aspects or elements between two things.

considerable affinity

Suggests a natural liking or similarity between things.

FAQs

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

You can use "close resemblance" to indicate a strong similarity between two things, such as "The copycat painting bears a "close resemblance" to the original".

What are some alternatives to "close resemblance"?

Alternatives include "striking similarity", "strong similarity", or "near likeness", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "close resemblance" or "closest resemblance"?

"Close resemblance" indicates a general strong similarity. "Closest resemblance" implies that among several options, one has the most similarity.

What's the difference between "close resemblance" and "passing resemblance"?

"Close resemblance" indicates a strong, notable similarity. "Passing resemblance" suggests a superficial or slight similarity. If you need to describe a weaker similarity between objects use "passing resemblance".