look exactly the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look exactly the same" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe two things that appear to be exactly alike. For example, "The twins look exactly the same, even though they were born two years apart."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

They look exactly the same.

The New York Times - Travel

They all look exactly the same.

The New Yorker

"The cedar trees look exactly the same," she told us.

The New Yorker

But the boots will look exactly the same.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Some of the houses look exactly the same.

The Guardian

"You know, it's just that both those belts look exactly the same to me".

The New York Times

"We'll reinstall them, and from the outside they'll look exactly the same," Ms. Stilson said.

The New York Times - Science

But higher up, the slopes look exactly the same as in midwinter.

Independent

Since the letters look exactly the same, you can choose how to arrange them.

The New York Times

He says all bedrooms look exactly the same when you are asleep.

The Guardian

"We are used to wanting mass products that are perfectly produced and look exactly the same.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing subtle differences, use "look nearly the same" or "look almost exactly the same" to convey nuance and avoid overstating complete uniformity.

Common error

Avoid using "look exactly the same" when there are minor, but noticeable, differences. Using stronger words may undermine your credibility if the similarities are not as exact as you claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look exactly the same" primarily functions as a descriptive phrase. It is used to indicate that two or more things have a virtually indistinguishable appearance. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Wiki

21%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Science

6%

HuffPost

4%

Forbes

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "look exactly the same" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe items or people with virtually identical appearances. As Ludwig highlights, it is widely accepted and appropriate for various contexts, ranging from news articles to academic papers. When using this phrase, ensure that the subjects truly present no discernible differences to avoid exaggeration. Consider alternatives like "appear identical" or "seem indistinguishable" when slight variations exist. Ludwig's analysis confirms its established place in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appear identical

Focuses on the identical appearance, highlighting a complete match in visual characteristics.

seem indistinguishable

Emphasizes the difficulty in telling the difference between the subjects.

are virtually identical

Highlights that the subjects are almost, but perhaps not perfectly, the same.

bear a striking resemblance

Stresses the strong similarity in appearance.

are carbon copies

Implies a perfect replication, suggesting an exact match.

could be twins

Suggests a very close resemblance, often used figuratively.

are mirror images

Indicates a reversed but otherwise identical appearance.

look like two peas in a pod

Uses an idiom to describe items or people who look very similar.

are doppelgangers

Refers to a non-related person who looks like another person.

present an identical facade

Suggests that the exterior appearance is the same, even if the internal aspects differ.

FAQs

How can I use "look exactly the same" in a sentence?

You can use "look exactly the same" to describe items or people with a virtually indistinguishable appearance. For example, "The two paintings "look exactly the same" to the untrained eye."

What are some alternatives to "look exactly the same"?

Alternatives include "appear identical", "seem indistinguishable", or "are virtually identical" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "look exactly the same" in formal writing?

Yes, "look exactly the same" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, ensure that the context is accurate; if there are subtle differences, consider using a more nuanced phrase.

Which is more accurate, "look exactly the same" or "look almost the same"?

"Look exactly the same" implies no discernible difference, while "look almost the same" suggests minor variations. Choose the phrase that best reflects the degree of similarity you want to convey.