not unlike that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not unlike that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is similar to another thing, often in a slightly ironic or understated way. Example: "The painting's style is not unlike that of the famous artist, evoking a sense of nostalgia."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Not unlike that something their parents felt when they gave them their names.

The New York Times - Sports

As suburban strip malls go, it's not unlike that found in many American towns.

The New York Times

At one point the music assumes an unexpected lushness not unlike that found in Strauss.

The New York Times - Arts

This kind of subtlety is not unlike that found in the repeatedly depicted myths of Greek tragedy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It features a bookshelf layout not unlike that found in Apple's iBooks, where albums are stored.

TechCrunch

Our spaceship Earth is not unlike that boat at sea.

Huffington Post

The Tanzanian situation is not unlike that found in other sub-Saharan countries.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Not unlike that definition.

The Guardian

It sounded not unlike that afternoon's rehearsal.

The New York Times - Arts

The history of Australia's aborigines is not unlike that of North America's Indians.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It featured scientists, doctors, philosophers, and theologians--not unlike that first conference Miller attended in Rome.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not unlike that" to draw parallels subtly, creating a nuanced comparison rather than a direct assertion of similarity. This is particularly useful in descriptive writing where you want to hint at resemblance without being overly explicit.

Common error

Avoid using "not unlike that" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, its slightly informal tone might be better replaced with more direct and precise comparative language such as "similar to" or "comparable to".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not unlike that" functions as a comparative, drawing a parallel between two subjects. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in English. It suggests a similarity without explicitly stating it, often implying a subtle or nuanced resemblance. The examples show it modifying nouns or clauses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not unlike that" is a versatile comparative phrase used to draw subtle parallels between different subjects. According to Ludwig AI, it's a correct and commonly used expression. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, its tone is generally neutral, making it suitable for various contexts, from news articles to descriptive writing. However, it's best to avoid overuse in highly formal or academic settings, where more precise alternatives might be preferred. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science sources. Related phrases include "similar to that" and "comparable to that". Overall, "not unlike that" is a valuable tool for creating nuanced comparisons in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similar to that

Directly conveys the resemblance, lacking the subtle understatement of the original phrase.

comparable to that

Indicates a degree of equivalence or likeness, suggesting a formal comparison.

akin to that

Implies a close relationship or similarity in nature or quality, often used in more formal contexts.

reminiscent of that

Suggests that something brings to mind or recalls something else.

much like that

A more emphatic way of expressing similarity, highlighting a strong resemblance.

bears a resemblance to that

Formal expression emphasizing the observable similarities between two things.

shares characteristics with that

Highlights shared traits or qualities, often used in analytical or descriptive contexts.

analogous to that

Indicates a parallel or correspondence, often used when drawing comparisons between different domains.

in the same vein as that

Implies a similarity in style, approach, or character, often used in creative or artistic contexts.

on par with that

Suggests that something is of equal quality or standard.

FAQs

How can I use "not unlike that" in a sentence?

"Not unlike that" is used to draw a comparison between two things, suggesting they share similarities. For example, "The atmosphere in the room was "not unlike that" of a library, quiet and contemplative."

What phrases can I use instead of "not unlike that"?

Alternatives include "similar to that", "comparable to that", or "reminiscent of that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "not unlike that" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "not unlike that" has a slightly informal tone. In highly formal contexts, consider using more precise alternatives such as "analogous to that" or ""comparable to that"".

What's the difference between "not unlike that" and "similar to that"?

"Not unlike that" implies a subtle or understated similarity, whereas ""similar to that"" is a more direct and straightforward comparison. The former can add a touch of nuance or irony to your writing.