exactly the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exactly the same" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it any time you want to emphasize that something is exactly the same, and not just similar. For example, "We wanted the same model of chair, but he brought one that was exactly the same."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Otherwise, it's exactly the same".

The New York Times - Sports

It was exactly the same.

The New York Times

Otherwise we're exactly the same.

The New York Times

That's not exactly the same.

The New Yorker

They're not exactly the same.

The New Yorker

They look exactly the same.

The New York Times - Travel

It's all exactly the same.

The New Yorker

It stayed exactly the same.

The New York Times - Arts

"I said exactly the same.

The New York Times

"They are exactly the same.

The New York Times

Expectations are exactly the same.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase when precision is key, for instance, in technical specifications or legal documents, where even small differences matter.

Common error

While "exactly the same" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for alternatives like "just like" or "similar to" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exactly the same" functions as an intensifier followed by a determiner and an adjective, used to emphasize that two or more things are completely identical. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

16%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exactly the same" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to denote complete identity or equivalence. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is best used when precision is required and the items being compared are truly identical. While suitable for formal contexts, less formal options may be preferable in casual conversations. Key usage patterns show it is most frequent in news and media, wikis and science, highlighting its versatility. When precision is key, this phrase is your best bet for avoiding confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precisely identical

Emphasizes absolute identity and lacks any deviation.

completely equivalent

Highlights that things are equal in value, force, or meaning.

indistinguishable

Focuses on the inability to perceive any difference.

wholly alike

Stresses the completeness of the similarity.

perfectly uniform

Highlights that items share the exact same format.

totally equal

Emphasizes equality in all aspects or measurements.

one and the same

A more emphatic and sometimes idiomatic way to state identity.

a carbon copy

An informal way to describe something as an exact duplicate.

a dead ringer

An informal way to describe something as an exact duplicate of a person.

duplicate

Identical instance of a particular item.

FAQs

How can I use "exactly the same" in a sentence?

You can use "exactly the same" to emphasize that two or more things are identical. For example, "These two cars are exactly the same model and year."

What are some alternatives to "exactly the same"?

Alternatives include "precisely identical", "completely equivalent", or "indistinguishable". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "exactly the same" or "the exact same"?

Both phrases are commonly used and generally understood. However, "exactly the same" is often considered slightly more formal and grammatically traditional. "The exact same" is more colloquial, and both are considered correct.

When should I use "exactly the same" instead of "very similar"?

Use "exactly the same" when things are truly identical in every aspect. Use "very similar" when there are only slight differences or when you want to convey a degree of likeness without implying perfect identity.