on the same lines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the same lines" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to mean similar to what has been previously discussed. For example, "We discussed the importance of having good communication skills, and on the same lines, it is important to have strong problem-solving abilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And he called for a referendum on English independence on the same lines to the one due to be held next year in Scotland.

BBC

Clearly, on the same lines of Theorem 2.2 one can solve the uniqueness problem of a fixed point in an M-complete Menger space.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

In December 1944, the Germans were preparing for an offensive on the same lines as in 1870, 1914 and 1940 and no one among the allies seemed to have a clue.

The Guardian - Books

Working on the same lines as the proof of Theorem 2.4 is done, one may obtain the proof of the following result.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Is economics a science, on the same lines as physics or chemistry?

The Guardian - Opinion

The saga of the West pier at Brighton was on the same lines.

The Guardian

Our welfare states are built up on the same lines even if they differ in execution.

The Guardian - Books

Meanwhile, the third Dogville film is on its way, presumably conceived on the same lines.

The Guardian

They played on the same lines at Hayes, bumping chests after touchdowns.

The New York Times - Sports

If its governors wish to, they could also create more schools on the same lines.

The Economist

Mr. Maillot's choreography, with a few exceptions, works on the same lines and is quirky rather than inventive.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the same lines" to clearly indicate that a subsequent action, idea, or method is similar to one that has already been established. This helps maintain clarity and coherence in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "on the same lines" when you mean something is directly identical. The phrase implies similarity, not exact replication. Using it incorrectly can lead to miscommunication of your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the same lines" functions as an adverbial phrase, indicating similarity or parallelism between two concepts, actions, or ideas. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. It connects elements by suggesting they follow a comparable pattern or direction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Academia

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the same lines" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to denote similarity or parallelism between different elements. Ludwig confirms that it is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in news, media, and scientific contexts, it helps writers draw connections and maintain coherence. While it suits both formal and informal settings, ensure it accurately reflects a relationship of similarity, not identity, to avoid miscommunication. Employing this phrase correctly enhances clarity and understanding for your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similarly

A concise adverb indicating a likeness in some respect; very versatile.

along similar lines

Emphasizes the similarity in direction or approach, slightly stronger emphasis on direction.

in like manner

A more formal way of saying "similarly"; best in official documents.

in the same manner

Highlights the similarity in the way something is done or happens.

in a similar vein

Implies a similarity in style, character, or mood; best used in creative contexts.

by the same token

Introduces a point that is analogous to the previous one; good for logical arguments.

with the same approach

Focuses on the method or strategy used.

on a parallel track

Suggests independent but comparable developments or efforts.

following the same pattern

Highlights the recurrence of a specific arrangement or design.

on the same wavelength

Indicates agreement or shared understanding; more informal.

FAQs

How can I use "on the same lines" in a sentence?

You can use "on the same lines" to indicate that something is similar or analogous to something else. For example, "The second proposal follows "on the same lines" as the first, but with a different budget."

What phrases are similar to "on the same lines"?

Alternatives to "on the same lines" include phrases like "along similar lines", "in a similar vein", or "similarly". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "on the same lines" in formal writing?

Yes, "on the same lines" is suitable for formal writing. However, consider alternatives like "in like manner" for an even more formal tone in specific contexts.

What's the difference between "on the same lines" and "identical"?

"On the same lines" indicates similarity or analogy, whereas "identical" means exactly the same. If two things are exactly alike, use "identical". If they are just similar, use "on the same lines".