closely resemble

USAGE SUMMARY

'closely resemble' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe when two objects, people, or ideas look and/or act very similarly to each other. Example: Her new painting closely resembles her previous work.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The stapes does closely resemble a stirrup.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At UCL, accommodation costs now closely resemble the private sector.

The Guardian - Opinion

Nevertheless they closely resemble those of modern Europeans.

The Guardian

Why, then, did it more closely resemble a field hospital?

The Guardian - Sport

The flagella closely resemble the cilium in structure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The lesions closely resemble those in polyarteritis nodosa.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Both sexes closely resemble one another in appearance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They closely resemble the god symbols of the Cook Islands.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They closely resemble the Îles du Vent in appearance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These organisms closely resemble the collar cells of sponges.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In April 1984 it was rebuilt to closely resemble the original.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To make a comparison more impactful and avoid ambiguity, quantify or qualify the resemblance. Instead of just saying two things "closely resemble" each other, explain in what specific aspects or to what degree they are alike.

Common error

Avoid using "closely resemble" when the similarity is superficial or tenuous. Choose a weaker phrase, such as "somewhat resemble", or "share some characteristics with", to accurately reflect the degree of likeness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "closely resemble" functions as a verb phrase indicating a strong degree of similarity between two subjects. Ludwig examples show it's used to compare physical appearances, characteristics, or even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "closely resemble" is a verb phrase used to express a significant similarity between two things. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, especially in science, news, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure the comparison is specific and accurate. Alternatives include "bear a strong resemblance to" and "are strikingly similar to". Avoid overstating the resemblance and opt for weaker phrases if the similarity is only superficial. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate the degree of likeness between subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bear a strong resemblance to

Emphasizes the similarity as a 'resemblance' rather than a direct likeness.

are strikingly similar to

Highlights the surprising or noticeable nature of the similarity.

mirror each other

Suggests a very close and almost exact similarity, like a reflection.

are virtually identical to

Implies that the differences are so minor as to be almost nonexistent.

are much like

Simple and direct way of expressing similarity.

correspond closely to

Indicates a matching or aligning in specific aspects or details.

approximate to

Shows that the alternative is not exactly the same, but close in value or quality.

duplicate

Presents a more exact alternative, when two different things seems the same.

emulate

States one wants to match or equal something that has already been done.

simulate

To reproduce something; give the appearance or effect of.

FAQs

How can I use "closely resemble" in a sentence?

Use "closely resemble" to indicate a strong similarity between two things. For example, "The new model "closely resembles" the previous version in terms of design and functionality."

What can I say instead of "closely resemble"?

You can use alternatives like "bear a strong resemblance to", "are strikingly similar to", or "mirror each other" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "very closely resemble"?

While not grammatically incorrect, "very closely resemble" can be redundant. The word "closely" already implies a high degree of similarity. Consider using just "closely resemble" for a more concise expression.

What is the difference between "closely resemble" and "distantly resemble"?

"Closely resemble" implies a significant similarity, while "distantly resemble" suggests only a slight or superficial similarity. The choice depends on the degree of likeness you want to convey.