compares to

USAGE SUMMARY

"compares to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that two things are being compared. For example, "The speed of a cheetah compares to that of a speeding car."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

No one compares to you.

The New York Times

"Nothing compares to this," he said.

The New Yorker

But nothing compares to its waterfront views.

The New York Times

Still nothing compares to Handel's Messiah.

Independent

But nothing compares to the iPhone.

The New York Times

So no win compares to that.

The New York Times - Sports

Nothing compares to the hockey community".

The New York Times - Sports

There's nothing that compares to it.

The New Yorker

But nothing compares to Glaswegian enmity.

The New York Times - Sports

But nothing compares to this.

The Guardian - Sport

"But nothing compares to Jersey.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "compares to", ensure you're highlighting specific aspects of similarity or difference to provide meaningful context for your comparison.

Common error

Avoid using "compares to" without specifying what aspects are being compared. Ensure clarity by stating the basis of comparison to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "compares to" functions as a prepositional phrase used to draw a comparison between two or more subjects, highlighting either their similarities or differences. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and frequent appearance in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Wiki

7%

Huffington Post

4%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "compares to" serves as a versatile tool for drawing comparisons between different subjects. Ludwig AI identifies its usage as grammatically correct and very common. Predominantly found in News & Media, it helps to clarify subjects by highlighting similarities or differences. While it maintains a neutral register, its application extends across various communication styles. Remember to provide a clear context when using "compares to" to enhance understanding and prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is comparable to

Uses the adjective form of 'compare' to indicate a similar level or quality.

is on par with

Implies an equal or equivalent status or achievement.

measures up to

Suggests an assessment of whether something meets a certain standard.

is akin to

Indicates a resemblance or similarity in nature or qualities.

is analogous to

Highlights a parallel or correspondence between two things.

is equivalent to

States that two things have the same value, amount, or meaning.

bears comparison with

Suggests that something is worth comparing with something else to assess similarities and differences.

can be likened to

Offers a way of describing something by saying it is similar to something else.

is in the same league as

Indicates that something is at the same level of quality or ability as something else.

approximates to

Means that something is close or similar to a particular value or description.

FAQs

How do I use "compares to" in a sentence?

Use "compares to" to highlight similarities or differences between two subjects. For instance, "His dedication "compares to" that of a seasoned professional".

What can I say instead of "compares to"?

You can use alternatives like "is comparable to", "is on par with", or "measures up to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "compares to" or "compares with"?

"Compares to" is used to point out similarities, while "compares with" is used to examine both similarities and differences. Use "compares to" when you want to emphasize the resemblance, such as "This victory "compares to" a historical triumph".

What's the difference between "compares to" and "is similar to"?

"Compares to" directly indicates a comparison between two things, while "is similar to" simply states a similarity. "His approach "compares to" a classical method" implies an analysis, while "His approach is similar to a classical method" just notes a resemblance.