like ours

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like ours" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare or contrast one topic to another in a sentence, usually indicating that the two topics are somehow similar, or at least have something in common. For example: The quality of craftsmanship available in a custom-made dress like ours is unparalleled.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Obviously, we like ours.

Forbes

Forget boiled or fried, we like ours on wheels.

Forbes

They're like ours.

The New York Times

Theirs, like ours, was a people's war.

The New York Times

Their detention, like ours, was pointless.

The Guardian

Canine biologies look like ours, and the treatments look like ours".

The New York Times - Science

In a community like ours, that matters tremendously.

Princeton University

"Their pennies even look a lot like ours".

The New York Times

"I doubt that many partnerships like ours existed.

The New York Times

Fruit-fly brains, much like ours, are wired for inebriation.

The New Yorker

"Their lives are nothing like ours," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like ours" to draw comparisons that highlight shared characteristics or qualities, making your writing more relatable and engaging.

Common error

While "like ours" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid using it excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and sophisticated comparative phrases to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like ours" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase used for comparison. It indicates a similarity or resemblance between something and a characteristic, attribute, or possession of a group to which the speaker or writer belongs. Ludwig examples illustrate this in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

21%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "like ours" is a prepositional phrase used for comparison, indicating a similarity between something and what belongs to "us". Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. The phrase is very common, particularly in news & media, academia, and science, indicating a neutral register. While grammatically sound and widely understood, it's essential to ensure clarity about who "we" refers to and to avoid overuse in highly formal contexts. Related phrases include "similar to ours" and "such as ours", which offer subtle variations in meaning. Ludwig examples provide valuable context for understanding its versatility and appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Such as ours

Used to introduce an example from our group or possessions.

Similar to ours

Emphasizes similarity, which can be broader than just belonging to 'us'.

Comparable to ours

Focuses on the aspect of being able to compare 'it' with something that belongs to 'us'.

Equivalent to ours

Focuses on functional equivalence or equal value.

Resembling ours

Highlights visual or superficial similarities.

On par with ours

Highlights equal level in quality, status, or value as something that belongs to 'us'.

Of our kind

Implies similarity in nature or type, focusing on a shared characteristic.

Like what we have

A more descriptive and less formal way of expressing similarity.

As we have it

Emphasizes the way we possess or experience something.

In our style

Highlights similarity in style, method, or manner.

FAQs

How can I use "like ours" in a sentence?

Use "like ours" to draw a comparison between something and a characteristic or possession of a group you identify with. For example, "Their challenges are much "like ours", stemming from similar economic conditions".

What are some alternatives to "like ours"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases such as "similar to ours", "such as ours", or "comparable to ours" for a more formal tone. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "as ours" instead of "like ours"?

While "like" and "as" can sometimes be interchangeable, "like ours" is generally the preferred and more grammatically sound choice for comparisons. "As ours" may sound awkward or incorrect in most contexts.

How does "like ours" differ from "of our own"?

"Like ours" implies a similarity, while "of our own" suggests possession or origin. For example, "a solution "like ours"" indicates a similar solution, while "a solution of our own" emphasizes that the solution originated from within our group.