not quite same

USAGE SUMMARY

"not quite same" is a proper phrase for written English.
You can use it to indicate that two things have slight differences but are essentially similar. For example, "The two versions of the book are not quite same, but the plot is essentially the same."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's not quite same day, but it's close.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It obviously has designs on fast (if not quite same-day) shipping to the seven million generally affluent, Internet-using residents of the Bay Area.

The New York Times - Tech

Predictably, the coffee shop was the same but somehow not quite the same.

The New Yorker

Not quite the same but it adds the crunch and sweetness I like.

Independent

Not quite the same.

The New York Times

But it's not quite the same.

The New York Times

Yeah, not quite the same buzz.

The New York Times

"The atmosphere is not quite the same.

The New York Times - Sports

Video games are not quite the same".

Independent

Not quite the same thing.

The Guardian

Not quite the same ring.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not quite same" to subtly indicate differences when comparing two things that are generally similar. This avoids implying a complete dissimilarity and allows for nuanced comparison.

Common error

Avoid using "not quite same" when the differences are substantial. It's best suited for minor variations; otherwise, opt for stronger phrases like "completely different" or "entirely unrelated."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not quite same" primarily functions as a qualifier, indicating that two or more items are similar but possess subtle differences. The Ludwig examples, confirm that while there is a resemblance, there are also noticeable distinctions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not quite same" is a grammatically correct expression used to convey that two or more things share similarities but are also discernibly different. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. While it is not overly common, analysis of usage patterns reveals that it is often found in news and media contexts. When aiming for greater precision, alternatives such as "slightly different" or "somewhat dissimilar" can be considered. In summary, the phrase serves as a useful tool for making nuanced comparisons, offering a middle ground between absolute equivalence and complete dissimilarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly different

Emphasizes a minor degree of difference.

somewhat dissimilar

Highlights the presence of differences while still acknowledging a connection.

not exactly alike

Indicates that the items share similarities but are not identical.

not precisely the same

Stresses that although comparable, the items lack exact correspondence.

distinct but related

Points out differences, but maintains the connection between them.

akin but not identical

Implies close relation, but not perfect sameness.

bearing resemblance, but with variations

Highlights shared traits alongside noted differences.

similar, yet divergent

Highlights the similarities at the base, but also the act of moving away from the base.

shares traits, but differs

Focus on the likenesses that exist but also the differences.

not entirely uniform

Emphasizes lack of perfect consistency or standardization.

FAQs

How can I use "not quite same" in a sentence?

You can use "not quite same" to express that two things are similar but have noticeable differences. For example, "This recipe is "not quite same" as the original, but it's still delicious".

What are some alternatives to saying "not quite same"?

Alternatives include "slightly different", "somewhat dissimilar", or "not exactly alike". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "not quite same"?

Yes, "not quite same" is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in informal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct.

When should I use "not quite same" versus "completely different"?

"Not quite same" implies a degree of similarity with some notable differences. Use "completely different" when there are no meaningful similarities between the two things being compared.