draw a comparison

USAGE SUMMARY

"draw a comparison" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
It can be used to ask someone to compare two or more things for the purpose of explaining their similarities and differences. For example: "Please draw a comparison between the two books to explain why one is more popular than the other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Cameron's decision to draw a comparison raised eyebrows at Westminster.

The Guardian

They draw a comparison with the Khatami period [1997-2005, when the conservatives lost several elections].

The Guardian

Hoffmann goes on to draw a comparison between pre-WWII and post-WWII urban experiences.

University of California, Berkeley

According to the rules, submissions were meant to draw "a comparison between Quiznos and Subway with Quiznos being superior".

The New York Times

"We should draw a comparison with the previous chairman, who did try to explain what the Environment Agency does".

The Guardian

"I don't think we can draw a comparison to how he was three years ago," Coach Mike D'Antoni said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

He drew a comparison.

The New York Times - Sports

He drew a comparison to Afghanistan.

The New Yorker

Ms. Lerner drew a comparison with the past.

The New York Times

He draws a comparison to sports.

The Washington Post

King also drew a comparison between Meyer and Perry Mason mystery writer Erle Stanley Gardner.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "draw a comparison", ensure that the items being compared are clearly defined to provide a focused and meaningful analysis. For instance, instead of simply stating "draw a comparison", specify what you are comparing: "Draw a comparison between the effects of the two policies."

Common error

Ensure your comparison isn't too general. Instead of saying "draw a comparison of the two", specify what aspects you are comparing to provide clarity and direction. For example, specify: "draw a comparison of the methodologies used in both studies".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "draw a comparison" functions as a verb phrase used to introduce a comparative analysis. It sets the stage for exploring the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. As shown by Ludwig, the expression is suitable for various writing contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "draw a comparison" is a versatile and widely used phrase for initiating a comparative analysis. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for various contexts, especially in news, scientific, and academic domains. While alternatives like "make a comparison" exist, this phrase remains a strong choice for clearly signaling an intent to evaluate similarities and differences. The phrase is best used with clear definitions of what is being compared to avoid vagueness, and it enjoys strong support from authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a comparison

This alternative is more direct and uses "make" instead of "draw", offering a simpler phrasing.

offer a comparison

This alternative suggests presenting a comparison that already exists or has been prepared.

establish a comparison

This alternative implies setting up a comparison where one might not readily exist.

draw a parallel

This alternative focuses on identifying similarities between two or more things.

make an analogy

This alternative involves explaining something complex by showing its similarities to something simpler.

contrast

This alternative is shorter and focuses on highlighting the differences between two or more things.

liken

This alternative involves pointing out the resemblances between different things.

equate

This alternative asserts that two things are equal or equivalent.

juxtapose

This alternative places two things side by side, often to highlight their differences.

correlate

This alternative emphasizes a mutual relationship or connection, not just a comparison.

FAQs

How can I use "draw a comparison" in a sentence?

You can use "draw a comparison" to introduce a comparative analysis. For example, "Let's draw a comparison between these two economic models to understand their strengths and weaknesses."

What does "draw a comparison" mean?

The phrase "draw a comparison" means to make a comparison, highlighting similarities and differences between two or more items. It suggests a structured analysis to understand their relationship.

Which is more formal, "make a comparison" or "draw a comparison"?

Both "draw a comparison" and "make a comparison" are appropriate for formal contexts. The choice often depends on stylistic preference, as they convey the same meaning.

What are some alternatives to "draw a comparison"?

Alternatives include "offer a comparison", "establish a comparison", or "draw a parallel", each subtly altering the nuance of the comparison being made.