matched only by

USAGE SUMMARY

"matched only by" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You would use it when there is a comparison being made between two or more things that are similar in some way. For example: "The quality of the performance was extraordinary, matched only by the enthusiasm of the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As a genre it is matched only by Bollywood.

The Guardian

In America, our idealism is matched only by our bloodlust.

The Guardian - Film

The breathless title is matched only by the deathless prose.

The Guardian

Its eco-credentials are matched only by its pure indulgence.

The Guardian - Travel

Mister's ill temper is matched only by his staggering incompetence.

The New York Times

His profligacy is matched only by his irresponsibility.

The Guardian - Opinion

Their devotion was matched only by the performers'.

The New York Times - Arts

For intensity, he's matched only by Sheri Graubert's Queen Margaret.

The New York Times

They are matched only by the men they face tonight.

The Guardian - Sport

Yet Russian stubbornness has been matched only by European indifference.

The Economist

A sense of gloom about the future was matched only by grief over the night before.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Maintain parallel structure when using "matched only by". For example, if you are comparing nouns, ensure both sides of the comparison are nouns. For example, "His dedication was matched only by his enthusiasm."

Common error

Avoid using "matched only by" when you are not explicitly comparing two similar attributes. This phrase should not be used to describe a singular quality or characteristic without a point of comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "matched only by" functions as a comparative correlative, used to emphasize that two qualities or attributes are remarkably similar in degree or intensity. It highlights a strong equivalence between the compared elements, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

9%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "matched only by" serves as a powerful comparative tool to emphasize the equivalence between two notable qualities or entities. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media and academia. The phrase demonstrates neutrality in register while providing a clear and impactful comparison. To enhance your writing, ensure the comparison is between measurable attributes and maintains structural parallelism. Common errors to avoid include using the phrase in non-comparative contexts. Consider alternatives like "equaled only by" or "second only to" for nuanced expressions. The comprehensive analysis underscores its effectiveness in conveying a significant and unique comparison.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equaled only by

Replaces "matched" with "equaled", emphasizing an equivalent level rather than a mere similarity.

second only to

Frames the comparison as a ranking, where something is the best except for one other thing.

surpassed only by

Indicates that something is better than all others except one, shifting the focus to superiority.

unsurpassed except by

Highlights the exceptional quality of something, with only one known exception.

unmatched save for

Uses more formal language to indicate that something is superior in all cases but one.

is second to none besides

Expresses a high degree of excellence, allowing for a single exception.

paralleled only by

Suggests a close similarity or analogy, rather than a direct comparison of value or intensity.

rivaled only by

Implies a competitive aspect to the comparison, where the things being compared are in some form of contest.

mirrored only by

Suggests a reflection or close resemblance in terms of characteristics or qualities.

only to be compared with

Changes the structure to emphasize the difficulty in finding a suitable comparison.

FAQs

How do I use "matched only by" in a sentence?

Use "matched only by" to compare two attributes or qualities, indicating that they are similarly impressive or significant. For example, "Her talent was "matched only by" her dedication".

What can I say instead of "matched only by"?

You can use alternatives like "equaled only by", "surpassed only by", or "second only to" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "unmatched except by" instead of "matched only by"?

Yes, "unmatched except by" is a valid alternative, although it's more formal. It conveys that something is superior in all cases but one, similar to how ""matched only by"" implies a single comparable entity.

What is the difference between "matched only by" and "rivaled only by"?

"Matched only by" suggests a similarity in quality or intensity, while "rivaled only by" implies a competitive aspect, where the things being compared are in some form of contest or opposition.