is virtually the same as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is virtually the same as" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that two things are very similar or identical in most respects, though there may be minor differences. Example: "In terms of functionality, this software update is virtually the same as the previous version."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

"The number of homes is virtually the same as the number of households," Wilcox wrote.

The Guardian

Flying Ted is virtually the same as flying coach on any other airline.

The New York Times - Travel

Sled hockey -- called sledge hockey outside the United States -- is virtually the same as regular hockey.

The New York Times - Sports

Today, the number of jobless people is virtually the same as it was on the eve of Mr. Kohl's defeat.

The New York Times

Across the services and within them, the structure of our military is virtually the same as during the cold war.

The New York Times

Although the Knicks' active roster is virtually the same as it was during last season's 30-52 debacle, the team is playing much differently.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

"They're virtually the same as they were prior to the settlement".

The New York Times

The second set of results was virtually the same as the first.

The Economist

Both numbers were virtually the same as in 2000 and 2001.

The New York Times

Walker dismissed the new complaint last year, saying the refiled suit was virtually the same as the first, a meritless suit.

The New York Times - Sports

"These very ancient copies of biblical books are virtually the same as the copies that we ourselves use.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is virtually the same as" when highlighting similarities that outweigh minor differences, helping to streamline understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "is virtually the same as" when significant differences exist. Overstating the similarity can mislead your audience and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is virtually the same as" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a subject by asserting a state of near equivalence. Ludwig confirms that this expression is widely used to indicate a high degree of similarity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is virtually the same as" is a versatile expression used to convey near equivalence between two subjects, with only slight differences. Ludwig AI validates the phrase as grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, media, and scientific contexts. While alternatives like "is almost identical to" and "is nearly the same as" offer similar meanings, it's crucial to ensure that the degree of similarity is accurately represented to avoid misleading the audience. This phrase functions as a predicate adjective, contributing to its widespread applicability across various registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is almost identical to

Emphasizes the similarity with a slight suggestion that any differences are negligible.

is nearly the same as

Indicates a close degree of similarity, implying minor variations.

is practically the same as

Highlights that the differences are insignificant in practical terms.

is essentially the same as

Focuses on the fundamental similarities, overlooking superficial differences.

is effectively the same as

Suggests the result or outcome is indistinguishable.

is more or less identical to

Indicates a very high degree of similarity, allowing for minor discrepancies.

is tantamount to

A more formal phrase suggesting equivalence in effect or value.

is much the same as

Simple phrasing that indicates close resemblance.

bears a close resemblance to

Focuses on the similarity in appearance or characteristics.

is analogous to

Suggests a similarity that allows for comparison but doesn't necessarily imply complete equivalence.

FAQs

How can I use "is virtually the same as" in a sentence?

Use "is virtually the same as" to express that two things are nearly identical, with only minor differences. For example, "The new model "is virtually the same as" the old one, except for a few cosmetic changes".

What are some alternatives to "is virtually the same as"?

You can use alternatives like "is almost identical to", "is nearly the same as", or "is essentially the same as" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct: "is virtually the same as" or "is exactly the same as"?

"Is exactly the same as" implies complete identity, while ""is virtually the same as"" suggests near identity with minor differences. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the degree of similarity.

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

"Is virtually the same as" indicates a very high degree of similarity, close to identical. "Is similar to" suggests a resemblance but allows for more significant differences.