means the same as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "means the same as" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when explaining that two terms or phrases have identical meanings. Example: "In this context, the term 'happy' means the same as 'joyful'."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Better access to data means the same, as the Open Notes study found.

The Guardian

It's free means the same as It's a freebie and has the advantage of brevity.

The New York Times - Magazine

That, though, is by no means the same as saying something is all in the mind.

The Economist

Defining the problem is not by any means the same as solving it.

The Economist

Navigable waters of the United States means the same as this term is defined in 33 CFR 2.36(a).

Cornell University

Anaxagoras, it is true, seems to me to think that the word means the same as fire.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

We think it unlikely that there is an identity relationship (in which "as" would mean "the same as").

Biology Direct

You mean, the same as when people rot their septums?

The Guardian - Music

Since it cannot mean "the same as" it must mean "equally successful".

The Guardian - Books

Therefore, "justice" cannot mean the same as "honesty in word and deed".

Encyclopedia Britannica

When terrorists are called cowards, does it mean the same as when the term is applied to soldiers?

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "means the same as" when you want to clarify the meaning of a term or concept by relating it to something more familiar or easily understood. It is also helpful for defining jargon or technical terms for a broader audience.

Common error

While "means the same as" is clear, avoid overuse in formal writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "is equivalent to" or "is synonymous with" to enhance the tone and precision of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "means the same as" functions as a definitional connector. It serves to establish equivalence between two terms or concepts, clarifying the meaning of one by relating it to the other. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard and acceptable construction.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

32%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

11%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "means the same as" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to establish equivalence between two terms. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. While versatile, it's crucial to consider context and opt for more sophisticated synonyms in formal writing. This expression is most frequently found in news and media, academic texts, and scientific publications. Remember to clarify meaning and ensure understanding by using this phrase effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is equivalent to

Focuses on the equivalence of the two terms.

is synonymous with

Highlights the synonymy between the two terms.

is identical to

Emphasizes that the two terms are exactly the same.

is another way of saying

Indicates that one term can be used as a substitute for the other.

can be interchanged with

Highlights the possibility of swapping the terms.

is defined as

Focuses on defining one term using another.

is understood as

Explains how a term is commonly interpreted.

amounts to the same thing as

Stresses that the end result is the same.

bears the same meaning as

Focuses on the shared semantic content.

is tantamount to

Suggests that the terms are virtually the same in effect or value.

FAQs

How can I use "means the same as" in a sentence?

You can use "means the same as" to clarify the meaning of a word or phrase by relating it to another. For instance, "In this context, 'happy' "means the same as" 'joyful'".

What is a more formal way to say "means the same as"?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "is equivalent to", "is synonymous with", or "is identical to". These options add sophistication to your writing.

Which is correct: "means the same as" or "is the same as"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different uses. "Means the same as" is used to define or equate meanings, while "is the same as" generally refers to identity or equivalence in other contexts.

What's the difference between "synonymous with" and ""means the same as""?

"Synonymous with" specifically indicates that two terms can be interchanged without altering the meaning. "Means the same as" is broader, encompassing definitions and interpretations.