markedly similar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "markedly similar" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two or more things that are noticeably alike or have significant similarities. Example: "The two paintings are markedly similar in style and color palette, making it difficult to distinguish between the works."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I met with the two separately — I'll call them Tim Smith and Karen Jones — but their accounts were markedly similar.

The New Yorker

It is also muddying one of the few clear differences between two otherwise markedly similar candidates.

The Economist

They cost five dollars and were markedly similar to a slip-on that a hip Swedish brand sells for four hundred and seventy dollars.

The New Yorker

The conceit sounds markedly similar to that of Mr. Marceau's "Overcoat," another ensemble mime drama that had a New York run in 1995.

The New York Times

They're so markedly similar that it's impossible to say which is better — swapping between the two will feel almost seamless.

Independent

Not so the tie between Kress's finale and the third movement of Bach's First Brandenburg (not performed), where the principal themes are markedly similar in rhythm, profile and gesture.

The New York Times - Arts

But it left its legacy, as I did have a relationship shortly after leaving school with someone else entirely unsuitable, the teacher obsession somehow transferring itself in a new boundary-breaking direction, but with markedly similar elements.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Boot Camp," which Fox, a unit of the News Corporation, began broadcasting three weeks ago, has been widely identified in newspaper reports and critiques as markedly similar to "Survivor" in many ways, with the format being often cited.

The New York Times

These are themes explored too in Louie, in which he plays a fictionalised version of himself who, aside from being less successful career-wise, seems markedly similar to the real thing.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Different in some ways, the two men are markedly similar in others: both show a self-punishing dedication and both jeopardise their emotional relationships, with either girl-friend or sister, to achieve success on the track.

The Guardian

The early script, which was markedly similar to the final Eastwood film, was accompanied by an option agreement that ostensibly showed it already existed when Mr. Brooks was still a young ballplayer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "markedly similar", ensure that the items being compared have enough overlap to justify the strong adverb. Use it to highlight significant resemblances, not superficial ones.

Common error

Avoid using "markedly similar" when the resemblance is slight or superficial. Overstating the similarity can mislead the reader and weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "markedly similar" functions as an adjective phrase, where "markedly" (adverb) modifies "similar" (adjective) to intensify the degree of resemblance. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in comparing various subjects, from scientific results to artistic styles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "markedly similar" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that emphasizes a significant degree of likeness. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's employed across various contexts, notably in scientific and news media publications. While it's appropriate for formal writing, be mindful not to overstate the resemblance. For alternative expressions, consider "strikingly alike", "noticeably comparable", or "distinctly resembling", each offering a slightly different shade of meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strikingly alike

Emphasizes the impressiveness or obviousness of the similarity.

noticeably comparable

Highlights that the similarity is easily observed or worth noting.

distinctly resembling

Indicates a clear and recognizable likeness in appearance or nature.

clearly analogous

Suggests a correspondence or partial similarity, often used in a logical or functional sense.

highly correspondent

Implies a close agreement or conformity in terms of characteristics or details.

largely indistinguishable

Conveys that the differences are so minimal as to be almost impossible to tell apart.

virtually identical

Indicates an almost perfect match, with very minor or negligible differences.

closely related

Suggests a similarity based on a shared origin, connection, or evolutionary history.

strongly parallel

Emphasizes that the similarity is more conceptual and structural.

significantly convergent

Highlights the tendency to move toward similarity or a common point.

FAQs

How can I use "markedly similar" in a sentence?

Use "markedly similar" to describe two or more things that share noticeable and significant similarities. For example: "The two studies showed "markedly similar" results."

What's a good alternative to "markedly similar"?

Alternatives include "strikingly alike", "noticeably comparable", or "distinctly resembling". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "markedly similar" in formal writing?

Yes, "markedly similar" is suitable for formal writing. It is often used in academic, scientific, and professional contexts to clearly indicate substantial similarities between subjects.

What is the difference between "markedly similar" and "somewhat similar"?

"Markedly similar" implies a significant and easily noticeable degree of similarity. "Somewhat similar" suggests a lesser degree of resemblance. Use "markedly similar" when the similarities are prominent and important, and "somewhat similar" when similarities exist but are not as pronounced.