extremely similar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extremely similar" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe two or more things that have a high degree of likeness or resemblance to each other. Example: "The two paintings are extremely similar in style and color palette, making it difficult to distinguish between the original and the replica."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(The Nikon S8000 is extremely similar, but costs more).

The New York Times - Tech

"I saw extremely similar behavior and extremely similar problems in an Islamic insurgency in West Java and a Christian-separatist insurgency in East Timor," he said.

The New Yorker

"Masters and Johnson saw men and women as extremely similar," Heiman said.

The New York Times - Magazine

The character of Willy Loman is extremely similar to Franz's own father.

The New Yorker

Tenniswood said: "These individuals are extremely similar to ex-girlfriends of mine.

The Guardian

Still, our state-by-state forecasts are extremely similar to those issued by our competitors.

The New York Times

"DNA from different organisms can be extremely similar," said Dr Iles.

Independent

Analysis by specialists at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution showed that the two sounds were extremely similar.

The New York Times

Except perhaps for a few specific features, brain organization and early development of elephants and humans are extremely similar.

The New York Times - Magazine

There, it becomes apparent that writing and walking are extremely similar feats, equal parts physical and mental.

The New Yorker

Yet anyone abandoning Jimmy Eat World would have found extremely similar sounds and views only steps away.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing multiple items, use "extremely similar" to emphasize a high degree of likeness, but ensure that you clarify the specific aspects in which they are similar to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "extremely similar" when only superficial or minor similarities exist; this can mislead your audience. Instead, consider using qualifiers like "somewhat similar" or "slightly alike" to reflect the true extent of the resemblance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extremely similar" functions as a pre-modifying adjective phrase, intensifying the degree of similarity between two or more entities. It is used to describe the extent to which things share common attributes. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

43%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "extremely similar" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase to express a high degree of likeness between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid and suitable for various contexts, including science, news, and general writing. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the similarity is indeed significant to avoid misleading your audience. It is more prevalent in scientific and news-related contexts. Consider alternatives like "virtually identical" or "remarkably alike" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

almost indistinguishable

Implies that it is very difficult to tell the difference between the items being compared.

virtually identical

Indicates a near-perfect match, suggesting only minor or negligible differences.

essentially equivalent

Underlines the functional or practical interchangeability of two or more things.

remarkably alike

Emphasizes the noticeable degree of similarity, adding a sense of surprise or observation.

strikingly comparable

Highlights the significant and notable nature of the comparison between two or more things.

largely the same

Conveys a sense of general equivalence, with only small areas of divergence or distinction.

bears a strong resemblance

Emphasizes a notable and evident likeness, indicating a clear connection or parallel.

closely resembles

Focuses on the visual or superficial similarities, suggesting a strong resemblance in appearance.

shares many attributes

Highlights the common characteristics or features between two or more items.

noticeably analogous

Stresses the parallel or corresponding qualities between two things that make them worthy of note.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "extremely similar"?

You can use alternatives like "remarkably alike", "virtually identical", or "closely resembles" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "extremely similar" in a sentence?

You can use "extremely similar" to compare two or more things that share many characteristics. For example: "The two research methodologies are extremely similar, which raises questions about the originality of the second study."

Is it correct to say something is "extremely similar to" something else?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "extremely similar" is typically followed by the preposition "to" to indicate what is being compared. For example: "The new model is extremely similar to the previous version."

What's the difference between "extremely similar" and "somewhat similar"?

"Extremely similar" indicates a high degree of likeness, suggesting the items being compared share almost all key characteristics. "Somewhat similar", on the other hand, indicates a weaker resemblance, implying that while there are some similarities, there are also notable differences.