is identical

USAGE SUMMARY

"is identical" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is exactly the same or very similar to something else. Example: The two paintings are identical, with the same brushstrokes and color palette. This phrase can also be used in a more figurative sense, to describe a situation or idea that is very similar to another. Example: The company's logo is almost identical to its competitor's, causing some confusion among customers. Overall, "is identical" can be used in any situation where you want to emphasize similarity or sameness between two things.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The principle is identical.

Independent

The rationale is identical.

The Guardian - Music

Every episode is identical.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Our interface is identical.

The New York Times

"He is identical.

The Guardian

The content is identical.

University of California, Berkeley

But the parallel is identical".

The New Yorker

The game play is identical.

The New York Times

The offence, in other words, is identical.

The Economist

In geochronology the situation is identical.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"The Marseglia case is identical to Ribatti's".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is identical", ensure that the context clearly defines the aspects being compared. This prevents ambiguity and reinforces the message of precise equivalence.

Common error

Avoid using "is identical" when comparing items with only superficial similarities. Reserve this phrase for situations where the match is precise and complete to maintain accuracy and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is identical" primarily functions as a copular verb phrase linking a subject to a predicate adjective, indicating a state of complete equivalence. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

35%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is identical" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase to assert complete sameness or equivalence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While it signifies an exact match, it's important to use it accurately to avoid overstating similarities. Consider alternatives like "are exactly the same" or "are indistinguishable" depending on the desired nuance. Ensure that you are comparing the right aspects of a thing when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are exactly the same

This alternative emphasizes the precise equivalence between two or more things.

are completely equivalent

This alternative highlights the functional or practical equivalence, suggesting interchangeable use.

are indistinguishable

This alternative focuses on the inability to perceive any difference between the items.

are virtually the same

This alternative suggests a very high degree of similarity, almost identical but with a slight allowance for minor differences.

are one and the same

This alternative emphasizes unity and complete equivalence, often used for abstract concepts or entities.

are perfectly alike

This alternative stresses the visual or superficial similarity.

are a perfect match

This alternative indicates a precise correspondence, often used in contexts like pairing or comparing items.

correspond exactly

This alternative focuses on the alignment or agreement in detail.

are clones of each other

This alternative implies an exact replication, often used in scientific or technological contexts.

mirror each other

This alternative suggests a reversed but structurally identical relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "is identical" in a sentence?

Use "is identical" to show that two things are exactly the same. For example, "The copy "is identical" to the original."

What phrases are similar to "is identical"?

Alternatives include "are exactly the same", "are completely equivalent", or "are indistinguishable", each carrying a slightly different nuance.

When is it appropriate to use "is identical" instead of "is similar"?

"Is identical" implies an exact match, while "is similar" suggests resemblance but not perfect equivalence. Use "is identical" when there are no discernible differences.

Can "is identical" be used for abstract concepts?

Yes, "is identical" can be used for abstract concepts to emphasize that they are precisely the same. For instance, "In this context, the meaning "is identical" to the definition."