is roughly the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is roughly the same" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two or more things that are similar in nature or quantity but not identical. Example: "The cost of living in both cities is roughly the same, making it easier for people to relocate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The cost is roughly the same.

Independent

Sony's model is roughly the same size as Panasonic's version.

The New York Times - Tech

For residential real estate, the difference is roughly the same.

The New York Times

Horsepower is roughly the same, as is fuel efficiency.

The New York Times

The gap is roughly the same among blacks.

The New York Times

The structure of the two works is roughly the same.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is roughly the same case as Philadelphia.

The New York Times

This is roughly the same amount the plant reportedly loses every week.

The Guardian

Each of the three over-painted pictures dates from 1935 and is roughly the same size.

The Guardian - Arts

That is roughly the same risk increase experienced during sex or heavy exercise.

The New York Times - Health

Nassau's graduation rate is roughly the same as all state community colleges.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing numerical data, consider providing specific figures to illustrate the degree of similarity suggested by "is roughly the same". For example, "The unemployment rate in both cities is roughly the same, hovering around 5%."

Common error

Avoid using "is roughly the same" when there are significant differences. Ensure the items being compared are genuinely similar, or the statement may mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is roughly the same" functions as a comparative descriptor, indicating similarity between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is a grammatical and usable English phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is roughly the same" is a versatile expression used to indicate that two or more things are similar without being identical. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various domains. Its frequency and broad applicability, particularly in news, media, and scientific contexts, highlight its usefulness in conveying approximate equivalence. When using this phrase, ensure that the degree of similarity justifies the comparison to avoid misleading readers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is approximately equal

Emphasizes the approximation and near equality between two or more things. The original phrase indicates an inexact sameness, this alternative emphasizes the nearness to equality.

is about the same

A more casual and direct way of expressing that two things are similar in quantity or quality. Changes the tone of the phrase making it less formal.

is nearly identical

Highlights the close similarity, suggesting the things being compared are almost the same. This alternative emphasizes the closeness to being identical rather than a rough sameness.

is more or less equivalent

Indicates that two things are functionally the same, even if not exactly equal. This alternative brings in the concept of functional equivalence.

is practically the same

Suggests that any differences are so small they can be disregarded. This focuses more on practical equivalence rather than precise similarity.

is much the same

A way to say that things haven't changed or that two things are very similar. It adds an element of continuity or unchanged state.

is in the same ballpark

An idiom suggesting things are within the same general range or order of magnitude. This alternative uses informal language.

is comparable to

Indicates that two things can be compared because they are similar in some way. This alternative directly focuses on comparability.

is on par with

Suggests that two things are equal or similar in quality or status. This brings in a sense of equality in value or standing.

approximates to

Emphasizes that one thing is a close estimate or likeness of another. Using the verb approximates puts more emphasis on the estimation.

FAQs

What does "is roughly the same" mean?

The phrase "is roughly the same" indicates that two or more things are similar in quantity, size, value, or another measurable aspect, without being exactly identical. It suggests an approximate equivalence.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "is roughly the same"?

Use "is roughly the same" when you want to convey that two quantities or values are close, but not precisely equal. It's suitable when the difference between them is insignificant for the purpose of your statement.

What are some alternatives to "is roughly the same"?

You can use alternatives like "is approximately equal", "is about the same", or "is nearly identical" depending on the context.

How does "is roughly the same" differ from "is exactly the same"?

"Is roughly the same" implies a degree of approximation and slight variation, while "is exactly the same" indicates complete and precise equality. The choice depends on the accuracy you want to convey.