is the same thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is the same thing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that two or more items, concepts, or ideas are equivalent or identical in meaning or function. Example: "In this context, 'freedom' and 'liberty' are the same thing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is the same thing".

The New York Times

"Coming here is the same thing.

The New York Times

"And this is the same thing.

The New York Times

Politics is the same thing.

The New York Times

HAL is the same thing.

The New York Times - Science

Sand is the same thing.

The New York Times

It is the same thing every night.

The New York Times - Sports

"As mayor, it is the same thing.

The New York Times - Style

With Rocky it is the same thing".

The Guardian - Film

It is the same thing with plants.

The New York Times

"I think Costco is the same thing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is the same thing" when you want to clearly establish that two concepts, actions, or objects are equivalent in a particular context. This can help simplify explanations and avoid unnecessary complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "is the same thing" as a shortcut in complex arguments where nuances matter. Overusing it can oversimplify intricate relationships and undermine the depth of your analysis. Ensure that the equivalence you're claiming is genuinely valid and doesn't obscure important distinctions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is the same thing" functions as a linking phrase, connecting two nouns, noun phrases, or clauses to assert their equivalence. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples across various domains, illustrating its versatility in establishing identity between different elements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

18%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

12%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is the same thing" is a common and grammatically correct way to express equivalence or identity between two elements. While Ludwig AI confirms its broad usability, it's important to consider the context and audience when choosing between "is the same thing" and more formal alternatives. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media sources and is less common in highly formal or technical writing. Understanding the nuances of its usage, as well as common pitfalls, allows for more effective and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is equivalent to

Focuses on the interchangeable nature of two items or concepts.

is effectively the same

Acknowledges minor differences but emphasizes the overall similarity.

amounts to the same thing

Suggests that the end result or effect is identical, even if the process differs.

is identical to

Emphasizes the complete sameness of two things.

is no different from

Indicates that there is no significant distinction between two things.

is one and the same

Stresses that two seemingly different things are actually a single entity.

boils down to the same thing

Implies that after simplification, the core meaning or result is the same.

is analogous to

Highlights a similarity or parallel between two things, often used in explanations.

is akin to

Indicates a resemblance or similarity, but not necessarily complete identity.

is commensurate with

Suggests a proportional or equivalent relationship.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "is the same thing" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "is equivalent to", "is identical to", or "amounts to the same thing".

When is it appropriate to use "is the same thing" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "is the same thing" when you want to emphasize that two or more concepts, items, or actions are interchangeable or functionally identical in a given context. It's particularly useful for clarifying definitions or simplifying complex ideas.

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

"Is similar to" indicates a resemblance or likeness, while "is the same thing" asserts complete equivalence or identity. Use "is the same thing" only when the two items are, for all practical purposes, identical.

Can "is the same thing" be used in all types of writing?

While generally acceptable, "is the same thing" might sound too informal for some academic or highly professional contexts. In those cases, consider using more formal alternatives such as "is equivalent to" or "is tantamount to".