most alike

USAGE SUMMARY

"most alike" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe two things or people that are very similar. For example, "The two sisters were most alike in their intelligence and enthusiasm for learning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

The mental aspect is where they are most alike".

The New York Times - Sports

Schiaparelli and Prada are most alike — indeed, nearly identical — in their ambition to be unique.

The New Yorker

Prada and Schiaparelli are most alike in their absolute determination not to resemble anyone.

The New Yorker

Antibalas and its beloved Afrobeat are most alike in terms of music's function within a community.

The New York Times - Arts

Of the four Democratic candidates for mayor, Peter F. Vallone and Alan G. Hevesi are the most alike.

The New York Times

"I think of all the coaches that I've ever worked with, we're the most alike," Meyer said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

While the equal moral consideration approach may seem to imply treating human beings and most animals alike, many of its defenders deny this counterintuitive implication by showing that two beings can deserve equal consideration and yet require differential treatment due to differences in the interests impacted.

SEP

In the home and business segments alike, most people have machines powerful enough to handle most foreseeable tasks.

Forbes

In the home and business segments alike, most people now have machines powerful enough to easily handle most foreseeable tasks.

Forbes

Because penguins look pretty much alike, most of the principals deliver distinctive vocal performances.

The New York Times

People came and went, Senegalese and Gambians alike, most sitting on donkey-drawn carts.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "most alike" when comparing three or more items to identify the pair or group exhibiting the greatest degree of similarity. It accurately pinpoints the closest match among a set of options.

Common error

Avoid using "most alike" when simply indicating a high degree of similarity between two items. "Very alike" is more appropriate in those cases, reserving "most alike" for comparative scenarios involving multiple options.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "most alike" functions as a superlative adjective phrase used to indicate the highest degree of similarity between two or more entities when compared to others. Ludwig provides examples where "most alike" describes shared traits, appearances, or characteristics.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

36%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "most alike" is a superlative phrase used to denote the greatest degree of similarity among a group of items being compared. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news and scientific contexts. When writing, remember to use "most alike" when comparing three or more entities, reserve "very alike" for scenarios involving only two items. By following this guidance, you can ensure clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

very similar

Emphasizes a high degree of resemblance, but without the superlative.

extremely comparable

Highlights the ability to draw comparisons effectively due to shared features.

nearly identical

Suggests a very close match, almost to the point of being indistinguishable.

closely resemble

Focuses on visual or superficial similarities.

share many traits

Highlights shared characteristics or qualities.

have much in common

Indicates a significant overlap in attributes or experiences.

cut from the same cloth

Implies a fundamental similarity in nature or origin.

two peas in a pod

Suggests an inseparable and highly similar relationship.

birds of a feather

Highlights shared interests or behaviors that bring people together.

kindred spirits

Emphasizes a deep connection and understanding based on shared values or beliefs.

FAQs

How do you use "most alike" in a sentence?

Use "most alike" to compare multiple items and highlight the pair or group that shares the greatest number of similarities. For example, "Among all the candidates, John and Mary are "most alike" in their experience and qualifications."

What is a synonym for "most alike"?

While there isn't a single perfect synonym, you can use phrases such as "very similar", "nearly identical", or "extremely comparable" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say 'the most alike'?

Yes, "the most alike" is grammatically correct. The inclusion of "the" helps specify a particular pair or group that is the most similar within a larger set. For example, "Of all the paintings, these two are "the most alike"."

What's the difference between 'most alike' and 'very similar'?

"Most alike" is used for comparison among three or more things, indicating the highest degree of similarity within that group. "Very similar" simply states that two things share many qualities, without necessarily comparing them to others.