have points in common

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have points in common" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that two or more subjects share similarities or commonalities. Example: "Despite their different backgrounds, the two authors have points in common in their writing styles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

I wasn't thinking of it, but, it's true, the two pieces have points in common.

The New Yorker

"Homeland" and "The Manchurian Candidate" do have points in common, though.

The New Yorker

Inevitably, films dealing with the same subject have points in common and, personally, I am rather flattered by such references.

The New York Times

Although you could perhaps say that the problems of Botswana have points in common with the problems of Bolivia.

The New York Times - Sports

These solos have points in common, but the first is especially effective, with its sharp contrasts of head position and the way the dance, in pas de chat (sideways jumps), plucks both feet into the air.

The New York Times - Arts

And even though we have points in common and experiences in common, everybody is different, and in the end, we're kind of like everybody else, just facing different challenges.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

If Claude Miller has points in common with me, it's more a question of affinity.

The Guardian - Film

While Jane Yolen's latest work has points in common with her previous Holocaust novels, it reflects the way the genre she helped to create has changed.

The New Yorker

Yolen's latest work, "Mapping the Bones," has points in common with her previous Holocaust novels, but it is also different, in a way that reflects how the genre she helped to create has changed in the three decades since.

The New Yorker

This method, based on single step FACS-sorting of α and β cells, has points in common to a recently described method (Kohler et al., 2012), but was developed independently.

EBioMedicine

These regulations have some points in common as well as differences.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "have points in common", ensure that you clearly specify what those shared points are to provide context and clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the importance of the shared points. If the similarities are superficial or minor, consider using a more nuanced phrase to accurately reflect the relationship between the subjects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have points in common" functions as a relational expression, indicating that two or more entities share similar attributes or characteristics. As shown in Ludwig, this phrase commonly connects different subjects by highlighting their shared aspects.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "have points in common" is a versatile expression used to denote shared attributes or similarities between two or more subjects. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields like news, science, and academia. While alternatives such as "share commonalities" and "exhibit similarities" exist, "have points in common" distinctly emphasizes specific shared aspects. To enhance clarity, it's advisable to clearly specify these shared points. Be mindful not to overstate their significance. Overall, mastering the usage of "have points in common" improves precision in expressing relationships and comparisons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

share commonalities

Focuses on the shared aspects, emphasizing the common ground.

exhibit similarities

Highlights the presence of similar features or traits.

possess shared attributes

Emphasizes attributes that are held jointly.

bear resemblance

Focuses on the likeness or similarity in appearance or character.

show parallels

Suggests a direct comparison, revealing similar patterns or developments.

are alike in some respects

Indicates similarity in certain specific areas or features.

have similar features

Highlights the likeness in specific elements or characteristics.

are comparable

Suggests that the subjects can be likened and compared to each other.

align in certain aspects

Emphasizes that the subjects match or agree in particular areas.

intersect in meaningful ways

Focuses on the overlapping or coinciding characteristics that are significant.

FAQs

How can I use "have points in common" in a sentence?

You can use "have points in common" to indicate that two or more subjects share similarities. For example: "Despite their different backgrounds, the two authors "have points in common" in their writing styles."

What are some alternatives to "have points in common"?

Alternatives include phrases like "share commonalities", "exhibit similarities", or "bear resemblance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "have points in common" or "share similarities"?

Both "have points in common" and "share similarities" are correct. The choice depends on the context and desired emphasis. "Share similarities" might be more direct, while "have points in common" can highlight specific shared aspects.

What's the difference between "have points in common" and "are related"?

"Are related" implies a connection or association, while "have points in common" specifically highlights shared characteristics or features. They are not always interchangeable; subjects can be related without having specific shared traits.