resembles that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "resembles that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing something to a specific reference or example that has been mentioned previously. Example: "The new design resembles that of the previous model, which was very popular among consumers."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Their structure resembles that of KC8.

Carbon

Pottery uncovered nearby resembles that commonly found in Vietnam.

The Guardian

The skin rash, if present, resembles that of discoid lupus.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It resembles that staple of reality television: the confessional.

The New York Times

So it's hardly surprising that this series resembles that film.

The New York Times - Arts

This methodology closely resembles that already employed by The Counted.

The Guardian

Runt resembles that landscape in its uncompromising contrasts.

The Guardian - Books

Its relief resembles that of Caloris Planitia but the size is much larger.

Advances in Space Research

The near-edge structure of the copper K-edge resembles that of Cu+.

Electrochimica Acta

From an engineering perspective, this problem resembles that of "circuit analysis".

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications

Cyamodontoid body armor superficially resembles that of turtles.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "resembles that", ensure the reference point is clear to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of 'This model resembles that', specify 'This model resembles that of the previous year's design'.

Common error

Avoid using "resembles that" without a specific antecedent. Vague references can confuse readers. Always ensure the 'that' clearly points to something previously mentioned.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "resembles that" serves as a comparative connector, linking a subject with something it shares characteristics with. It commonly appears in sentences describing similarities in appearance, function, or nature. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

31%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "resembles that" functions as a comparative tool, effectively linking subjects with shared characteristics. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse fields such as science, news, and academia. The phrase exhibits a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Best practices include ensuring a clear reference point for 'that' to avoid ambiguity, while common errors involve vague references. Alternatives like ""is similar to that"" and "is akin to that" offer nuanced ways to express similarity. With a high source quality score and expert rating, "resembles that" stands as a reliable and versatile phrase for expressing resemblance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is similar to that

Emphasizes a general similarity without specifying the nature of the resemblance.

is like that of

Uses a more conversational tone to indicate similarity.

is comparable to that

Highlights that a comparison can be made, often implying a degree of equivalence.

is akin to that

Uses 'akin' to suggest a similar nature or quality.

bears a resemblance to that

A more formal way of stating that something looks similar.

mirrors that

Suggests a direct reflection or close correspondence.

is analogous to that

Implies a similarity in function or structure, often used in technical contexts.

is reminiscent of that

Evokes a memory or association with something previously known.

approximates that

Indicates an approach to a certain standard or characteristic.

echoes that

Suggests a less direct or weaker resemblance, like an echo.

FAQs

What does "resembles that" mean?

The phrase "resembles that" means something shares similar qualities or characteristics with a previously mentioned item or concept. It indicates a comparison where one thing is like another.

How can I use "resembles that" in a sentence?

You can use "resembles that" to compare something to a specific example. For instance, "The new painting style resembles that of Van Gogh."

What's the difference between "resembles that" and "is similar to that"?

"Resembles that" and ""is similar to that"" are largely interchangeable. However, "resembles that" might suggest a more visual or superficial similarity, while ""is similar to that"" can encompass broader similarities.

What are some alternatives to "resembles that"?

Alternatives include "is akin to that", "is comparable to that", or "mirrors that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.