like seeks like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like seeks like" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express the idea that people or things with similar attributes or qualities tend to come together or be attracted. For example: "The young man found himself surrounded by like-minded people; it seemed like like seeks like in the small town."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Like seeks like, and like affirms like — and people gravitate to the intellectually similar others, even when all of their actions should rightly set off alarm bells.

The New Yorker

Like seeks like, and we lived in a neighbourhood of doctors, lawyers, executives, stockbrokers and successful entrepreneurs.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Most homeowners seek like-minded neighbors.

Los Angeles Times

He said he didn't want to be like flashy, or publicity seeking, like "a Richard Branson".

TechCrunch

They were like "seek help".

Vice

In the span of just a few years, China has become the leading trading partner of countries like Australia, Brazil and Chile as it seeks resources like iron ore, soybeans and copper.

The New York Times

We sought out like-minded people on YouTube and Facebook.

The Guardian

Seek out like-minded people.

WikiHow

And okra, like tomatoes, seeks sun.

The New York Times - Food

Just like Vladimir Putin, Steele seeks to draw an analogy with Kosovo.

The Guardian - Opinion

At the same time, tens of thousands of square feet were added to the market as struggling retailers like Circuit City sought bankruptcy protection or others, like the Gap and Barnes & Noble, closed stores in New York.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like seeks like" to succinctly describe situations where shared characteristics lead to association or attraction, especially in social or intellectual contexts. For instance, when describing how people with similar political views tend to cluster together.

Common error

Avoid assuming "like seeks like" implies a conscious choice or intentional bias. Sometimes, shared environments or circumstances can create similarities, rather than similarity being the sole driver of association.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like seeks like" functions as an observation or principle, suggesting a natural tendency for similar entities to associate. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It is often used to explain social dynamics or group formations, as seen in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "like seeks like" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the tendency of similar individuals or entities to associate, as validated by Ludwig. While not extremely common, it finds its primary usage in news and media, with occasional appearances in wiki and scientific contexts. The phrase serves to explain group dynamics and the role of similarity in fostering connections. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness. When using the phrase, consider the potential implications of insularity and avoid oversimplifying complex social dynamics by attributing them solely to similarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

birds of a feather flock together

This is a common idiom with a similar meaning, emphasizing shared qualities as a basis for association.

like-minded people tend to converge

This focuses on convergence emphasizing that individuals think in the same way.

people gravitate towards those who share their interests

This alternative focuses on the conscious attraction to shared interests.

similarity breeds connection

This phrase highlights the role of similarity in fostering connections between individuals or things.

compatible individuals are drawn to each other

It emphasizes compatibility as the driving force for attraction and connection.

shared values foster community

This suggests that common beliefs are the basis for community formation.

homophily

A formal sociological term that describes the tendency for individuals to associate with similar others.

affinity groups naturally form

This focuses on the spontaneous nature of group formation based on shared affinity.

the company you keep reflects who you are

This relates more to reputation than direct attraction but implies a connection to similar individuals.

misery loves company

A darker take on the idiom, focusing on the desire for shared negative experiences.

FAQs

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

You can use "like seeks like" to describe situations where similar people or things are drawn together. For example, "In online communities, like seeks like, and people with shared interests quickly find each other".

What does "like seeks like" mean in the context of social networks?

In social networks, "like seeks like" suggests that people tend to connect with others who share similar interests, values, or backgrounds, reinforcing existing beliefs and creating echo chambers.

Are there any negative connotations associated with the phrase "like seeks like"?

While generally neutral, "like seeks like" can sometimes imply insularity or a lack of diversity, suggesting that homogeneous groups may reinforce biases or limit exposure to new perspectives.

What are some alternative phrases to "like seeks like"?

Alternatives include "birds of a feather flock together", "people gravitate towards those who share their interests", or using the sociological term "homophily", depending on the context.