exactly like

USAGE SUMMARY

'exactly like' is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that two things are identical or to express that something is precisely the same as something else. For example, "My brother and I look exactly like each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Exactly like ants.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Not exactly like this.

The New York Times

Exactly like you said.

The New York Times

Exactly like here.

Columbia University

- exactly like your old ideas".

The New York Times

They looked exactly like that.

The New Yorker

It was exactly like that".

The New Yorker

"It's exactly like a breakup.

The New York Times

They are exactly like you.

Independent

W.W.G.D.? Something exactly like this.

The New Yorker

She looked exactly like him".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing abstract concepts, "exactly like" can help clarify complex ideas by relating them to something familiar.

Common error

While "exactly like" is acceptable, avoid overuse in formal writing. Consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "identical to" or "precisely the same as" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exactly like" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or adjective to emphasize the degree of similarity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

22%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exactly like" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for emphasizing a strong similarity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for a variety of contexts, from news and media to academic writing, though it's important to be mindful of overuse in formal settings. While alternatives such as "identical to" or "precisely the same as" exist, "exactly like" offers a versatile and easily understood way to convey a high degree of resemblance. Remember to use it strategically to strengthen your descriptions and comparisons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precisely the same as

This alternative emphasizes accuracy and precision in the comparison.

identical to

This phrase denotes a complete and perfect match, lacking any differences.

just like

This is a more informal way of expressing similarity, suitable for casual contexts.

the spitting image of

This phrase suggests a very close resemblance, often used for people.

a carbon copy of

This implies an exact duplication, as in a photocopy.

akin to

This suggests a similarity or resemblance, but not necessarily a perfect match. It's slightly more formal.

mirror image of

This suggests a reversed but otherwise identical likeness.

comparable to

This means similar enough to be compared, but not necessarily identical.

resembles closely

This alternative highlights the visual similarity between two things.

bears a striking resemblance to

Emphasizes a notable and obvious similarity.

FAQs

How can I use "exactly like" in a sentence?

You can use "exactly like" to show a strong similarity between two things. For example, "The painting was "exactly like" the original".

What are some alternatives to "exactly like"?

Alternatives to "exactly like" include "identical to", "precisely the same as", or "just like", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it grammatically correct to say "exactly like"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to say "exactly like". It's a common and accepted phrase used to express a strong similarity.

What's the difference between "exactly like" and "similar to"?

"Exactly like" implies a very close or complete resemblance, whereas "similar to" suggests a more general likeness. "Exactly like" indicates a higher degree of similarity than "similar to".