serves the same effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serves the same effect" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the equivalence of two actions, methods, or items in achieving a particular outcome or result. Example: "While the two methods differ in approach, they both serve the same effect in improving efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This is victim-blaming with a software update, with less interest in the kind of character assassination we saw deployed against Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown than in creating a seemingly right-minded position that serves the same effect.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Tellingly, Julia Roberts serves the same function.

The New York Times

The queen substance in the honeybee serves the same purpose.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The nagaswaram serves the same functions in southern India.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He later serves the same position for Doggett and Reyes.

Wikipedia

On your computer, Midomi serves the same function.

WikiHow

And the same system, strictly the same tool, serves to film Lauren Bacall, to produce the same effect of the real and the same relation to the image.

The New Yorker

A subpoena was served on the cable ISP, which ordinarily would have the same effect of a court order; but not according to this cable ISP.

TechCrunch

The same effect appears elsewhere.

The Economist

"The name Ailes has the same effect".

The New Yorker

Might the film have the same effect?

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing different methods or actions, use "serves the same effect" to clearly indicate they achieve a similar outcome, even if their approaches differ. This highlights the functional equivalence.

Common error

Avoid using "serves the same effect" when describing direct cause-and-effect relationships. This phrase indicates similarity in outcome, not that one thing directly causes another.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serves the same effect" functions as a comparative statement, indicating that different actions or methods lead to a similar outcome. As Ludwig AI shows, it's used to equate results rather than processes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "serves the same effect" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that different methods or actions lead to a similar outcome. Ludwig AI affirms its validity. While not extremely frequent, it is commonly found in news and general reference sources. When writing, ensure that you are using it to compare results rather than to indicate direct causation. Alternatives such as "has the same impact" or "produces a similar outcome" can provide variety in your writing. Remember to consider your audience and the context when choosing the most appropriate phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has an equivalent impact

Focuses on the impact being equal rather than the serving aspect, emphasizing the result.

produces a similar outcome

Highlights the similarity of the outcome, shifting the emphasis from the process to the final result.

achieves the same result

Emphasizes the accomplishment of an identical result, changing the verb and focusing on achievement.

yields a comparable consequence

Uses more formal language and focuses on the consequence, altering the tone and vocabulary.

functions in a parallel manner

Shifts the focus to the functional similarity, indicating that the processes operate alike.

exerts an analogous influence

Employs a more academic tone and highlights the influence exerted, using more sophisticated vocabulary.

fulfills an identical purpose

Concentrates on the purpose being fulfilled, replacing "effect" with "purpose" to denote intent.

creates a corresponding impression

Focuses on the impression created, changing the noun to emphasize perception.

generates a like response

Highlights the similarity of the response, shifting the focus to the reaction produced.

brings about an equivalent change

Emphasizes the change that occurs, focusing on the transformation as the key element.

FAQs

What does "serves the same effect" mean?

It means that two different actions, methods, or items produce a similar or equivalent result. The emphasis is on the similarity of the outcome rather than the process.

How can I use "serves the same effect" in a sentence?

You can use it to compare two things that achieve a similar result, like "Although the two techniques differ in their approach, they serve the same effect in improving efficiency."

What are some alternatives to "serves the same effect"?

Alternatives include "has the same impact", "produces a similar outcome", or "achieves the same result", depending on the context.

Is "serves the same effect" formal or informal?

The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in more academic or professional settings, alternatives like "yields a comparable consequence" might be preferred for a more sophisticated tone.