is similar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is similar" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare two or more things that share common characteristics or qualities. Example: "The new smartphone model is similar to its predecessor in terms of design and functionality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The technique is similar".

The Guardian

It is similar.

The New York Times

"Fanute" is similar.

The New York Times - Magazine

The fringe is similar.

The New York Times - Sports

Memory is similar.

The New Yorker

Beer Map is similar.

The New York Times - Tech

The sand is similar.

The New York Times - Sports

"Reactionary" is similar.

The New York Times

Forrester's analysis is similar.

The New York Times

Pemphigus vegetans is similar.

Encyclopedia Britannica

American law is similar.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is similar", ensure you clearly specify the aspect in which the items are similar to avoid ambiguity. For example, "This design is similar to the previous one in terms of functionality, but differs in aesthetics".

Common error

Avoid using "is similar" when the items being compared are only superficially alike. Opt for phrases like "is related to" or "has some connection to" if the resemblance is not strong or significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is similar" functions as a linking verb phrase used to connect a subject with an adjective that describes a state of resemblance or likeness. Ludwig AI confirms its broad applicability, showing it's used to draw comparisons across diverse subjects, from techniques to stories to even the weather.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is similar" serves as a versatile tool for drawing comparisons and highlighting resemblances across a wide range of subjects. Ludwig AI underlines the grammatical correctness and widespread use of this phrase, confirming its relevance across diverse contexts. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication, while its frequent presence in news media and encyclopedic sources attests to its value in conveying information and making connections. Remember to clearly specify the aspects in which the items are similar and avoid overstating the degree of similarity to ensure clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resembles

A direct synonym indicating likeness in appearance or qualities.

is comparable to

Focuses on the ability to compare the two items side-by-side.

is akin to

Implies a close relationship or essential similarity.

bears a resemblance

This alternative emphasizes visual or superficial similarity.

shares characteristics with

Highlights the common traits or features.

is analogous to

This suggests a similarity in function or relationship.

has affinity with

Emphasizes a natural liking or connection between the two.

is like

A more informal way to express similarity.

mirrors

Suggests a very close and direct resemblance, like a reflection.

is virtually identical to

Emphasizes a high degree of similarity, almost to the point of being the same.

FAQs

How to use "is similar" in a sentence?

The phrase "is similar" is used to indicate that two or more things share common characteristics or qualities. For example, "This car model "is similar" to the previous one, but has some improvements".

What can I say instead of "is similar"?

You can use alternatives like "resembles", "is comparable to", or "is akin to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is similar to" or "is similar with"?

"Is similar to" is the correct and more common construction. "Is similar with" is less standard and may sound awkward to native English speakers.

What's the difference between "is similar" and "is the same"?

"Is similar" indicates a likeness but not a complete identity, while "is the same" indicates that two things are identical in all relevant aspects. They are not interchangeable. If you want to convey that two things are identical consider to use the following alternative "is identical to".