not the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not the same" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a comparison between two things which are not the same or to indicate a change in the same thing. For example, "The two films are not the same; one is a comedy and one is a drama."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They're not the same.

The New Yorker

"Not the same.

The New York Times - Books

Not the same thing!

Independent

It's not the same.

The New Yorker

Not the same emotion.

The New York Times

Not the same security".

The New York Times

I'm not the same person".

The New York Times

But that's not the same.

The Guardian

Still, it's not the same.

The New York Times

"Not the same," he replied.

The New York Times

It is not the same.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not the same", ensure that the comparison is clear and the entities being compared are explicitly stated or easily inferred from the context. For example, instead of saying "Things are not the same", specify what things you are referring to.

Common error

Avoid using "not the same" without providing context or specifying what is being compared. This can lead to confusion and weaken the impact of your statement. Be specific about what differs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not the same" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to indicate a difference or dissimilarity between two or more things, people, or situations. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not the same" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to express differences or changes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and frequently encountered in various forms of English writing and speech. Its prevalence in News & Media highlights its usefulness in conveying distinctions clearly and concisely. Remember to provide clear context when using "not the same" to avoid ambiguity and ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not identical

Specifies that two things do not perfectly match or replicate each other.

different

Emphasizes a distinction or dissimilarity between two or more things.

nothing alike

Stresses the absence of any shared characteristics or qualities.

distinct

Highlights a clear and easily recognizable difference.

dissimilar

Focuses on the absence of resemblance or similarity.

unlike

Directly contrasts two things, showing they are not alike.

bears no resemblance

Indicates a complete lack of similarity or likeness.

worlds apart

Indicates a fundamental separation, often in terms of understanding, experience or status.

poles apart

Emphasizes a vast divergence, suggesting opposing natures or characteristics.

a far cry from

Suggests a significant difference, often implying a level of advancement or change.

FAQs

What does "not the same" mean?

The phrase "not the same" is used to indicate that two or more things are different from each other, or that something has changed over time so that it is no longer as it once was.

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

You can use "not the same" to compare two distinct entities (e.g., "This apple is "different" from that one") or to describe a change in a single entity over time (e.g., "Since the accident, he is "never the same"").

What are some alternatives to using "not the same"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "distinct", "dissimilar", "unlike", or "not identical".

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

Yes, the phrase "not the same" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. It functions as a comparative statement, indicating a lack of equivalence between two or more things.