comparable to a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "comparable to a" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when drawing a comparison between two things, indicating that they share similar qualities or characteristics. Example: "The new smartphone's camera quality is comparable to a professional DSLR."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

And it's not comparable to a bank.

The New York Times

"Murdah Loves John sounds comparable to a Bond tune, right?

The Guardian

The buzz: "Comparable to a pop-friendly Morrissey" – MTV Iggy.

The Guardian - Music

It's not comparable to a Mexican or Colombian cartel".

The New Yorker

The professor finds that last comparable to "a few friends".

The New York Times

"They are comparable to a fireworks display," Ms. Levy said.

The New York Times

A juniper "berry" is comparable to a complete pine cone.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The board is comparable to a corporate board of directors.

The New York Times

The BBC's reporting was, he felt, comparable to "a British National party awayday".

The Guardian - Sport

To Bloomberg, spending $500,000 is comparable to a measly millionaire shelling out a mere $100.

The New York Times

It is, say the rabbis, comparable to a ship setting out on a long ocean voyage.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "comparable to a", be sure to specify the aspect in which the items are similar. This adds clarity and prevents misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "comparable to a" when the similarities are superficial or insignificant. Overstating the comparison can weaken your argument and mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "comparable to a" functions as a prepositional phrase used for comparison, indicating that two or more things share similar qualities or characteristics. Ludwig's examples show its use in various contexts, reinforcing its role in establishing relationships based on shared attributes. It connects a subject to something else that serves as a point of reference.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "comparable to a" is a versatile and commonly used prepositional phrase that serves to draw comparisons between different subjects. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and finds frequent application across various domains including News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. Its primary function is to highlight similarities, offering context and clarity by relating the unfamiliar to the familiar. While maintaining a neutral register, "comparable to a" is an essential tool for effective communication, enabling speakers and writers to establish connections and convey nuanced understandings. The phrase is generally correct and very usable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similar to a

This alternative emphasizes a general resemblance without necessarily implying exact equivalence.

akin to a

This phrase suggests a likeness in kind or character, often implying a more inherent similarity.

analogous to a

This highlights a similarity that allows for drawing parallels or making inferences.

equivalent to a

This indicates a state of being equal in value, measure, or force.

on par with a

This suggests a level of equality in performance or quality.

matches a

This indicates a close correspondence or resemblance.

bears comparison to a

This phrase implies that the two things are worthy of being compared, suggesting notable similarities.

in line with a

This suggests that something is consistent or in agreement with something else.

of the same order as a

This implies that the magnitude or scale of something is similar to something else.

resembles a

This simply indicates a visual or superficial similarity.

FAQs

How can I use "comparable to a" in a sentence?

You can use "comparable to a" to draw a comparison between two things that share similar qualities. For example: "The new smartphone's camera is "comparable to a" professional DSLR."

What are some alternatives to "comparable to a"?

You can use alternatives such as "similar to a", "akin to a", or "analogous to a" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "comparable to a" or "comparable with a"?

"Comparable to a" is generally preferred and more common. "Comparable with a" is also grammatically correct, but less frequently used.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use "comparable to a"?

It's appropriate in contexts where you want to highlight the similarities between two distinct subjects, such as comparing the performance of two products or the quality of two different experiences.