in effect the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in effect the same" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that two things are essentially equivalent or have the same outcome, even if they are not identical in every detail. Example: "While the two proposals differ in their approach, they are in effect the same in terms of their overall goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

In effect, the same would happen here.

The New York Times

God and the heartless bureaucracy are in effect the same.

The New York Times - Books

The newest Latin American companies operate, in effect, the same way, critics like Professor Leeds contend.

The New York Times

This is in effect the same tax deduction "for the purchase of health insurance" that you oppose.

The New York Times

Two British TV reporters asked, in effect, the same question: what is in it for your voters?

The Guardian

Lawyers for Welch and Johnson said that the government's argument in the appeal was, in effect, the same argument made before Judge Sam.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The supplementary agreement in regard to naval or coaling stations signed between the two Governments on July 2, 1903, also shall continue in effect in the same form and on the same conditions with respect to the naval station at Guantanamo.

Yale University

Rather, the majority gives the word "attenuation" a new meaning (thereby, in effect, making the same argument as the United States).

Cornell University

The Administration is in effect making the same fiscal and monetary mistakes that during the Vietnam War by Lyndon B. Johnson and his budget director, Charles L. Schultze.

The New York Times

In effect the policies are the same now, but there is no new oil to come to the rescue.

The Guardian - Opinion

Since the filmmakers are in effect on the same errand, they may not know.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in effect the same", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates the equivalence you are implying. Provide specific examples or explanations to support your assertion.

Common error

Avoid using "in effect the same" when the comparison is only partially true or when there are significant differences. Ensure the equivalence is substantial and well-supported to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in effect the same" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or clause, indicating that two or more things are equivalent in their result or impact. Ludwig's examples show it's often used to equate different approaches with similar outcomes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in effect the same" is a versatile tool for expressing equivalence between different entities or actions, primarily used in News & Media and Science contexts. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness, and expert analysis rates it highly for both authority and consistent usage. When incorporating "in effect the same" in your writing, ensure that the equivalence is clearly demonstrated and substantial. Avoid overstating the similarity, and be mindful of the subtle differences that may exist. Alternatives like "essentially equivalent" or "practically identical" offer nuanced substitutes, while understanding the intent of the statement will help with choosing the correct alternative. This phrase, although suitable for formal and informal use, is a sign of developed critical and synthetic thinking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Essentially equivalent

Focuses on the fundamental similarity in nature or function.

Practically identical

Highlights the near indistinguishability in practical terms.

Virtually the same

Emphasizes a very close resemblance, almost identical.

Tantamount to

Indicates that something is equal in effect or value.

Comes down to the same thing

Suggests that different approaches lead to the same result.

Amounts to the same

Similar to 'comes down to', but focuses on the overall result.

Synonymous with

Indicates a direct equivalence in meaning.

For all intents and purposes, identical

Highlights that any differences are negligible or inconsequential.

Equivalent in practice

Focuses on the real-world equivalence despite potential theoretical differences.

Interchangeable with

Highlights that two things can be used in place of each other without significant impact.

FAQs

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

You can use "in effect the same" to show that two seemingly different things have the same result or impact. For instance, "Although the methods differ, they are "in effect the same" in achieving the desired outcome."

What phrases are similar to "in effect the same"?

Alternatives include "essentially equivalent", "practically identical", or "virtually the same". The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to use "in effect the same" in formal writing?

Yes, "in effect the same" is appropriate for formal writing. It clearly and concisely conveys equivalence, making it suitable for academic, professional, and journalistic contexts.

What's the difference between "in effect the same" and "exactly the same"?

"In effect the same" suggests that while there might be minor differences, the outcome or impact is identical. "Exactly the same" implies complete identity in all aspects. Use "in effect the same" when there's a subtle distinction but the end result is indistinguishable.