similar

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "similar" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare two or more things that have something in common. For example, "The two stories have a similar theme of loss and longing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Though that announcement had been hedged with the usual caveats, there was guarded optimism that MDP 301 would have similar results.

The Economist

In the unlikely event we have to replace a tutor, we shall make every effort to ensure the replacement tutor has similar expertise to the one advertised.

The Guardian

There was similar scenes moments later in Ballieston, Glasgow East, where Sturgeon cast her vote with her husband and SNP chief executive, Peter Murrell.

The Guardian

Clearly, the recent spotlight on conditions at Foxconn has performed a similar service for the electronics industry.

The New York Times

We had some amazing women who looked like them, and came from a background similar to them, so I'm uncovering role models who are exactly like them.

The Guardian

His task will be similar to the one Edberg encountered with Federer, helping him to understand he would have to accept being passed at the net because if he continued to do it correctly, it would pay off when the pressure was ramped up later in the match.

The Guardian - Sport

The UK has a similar programme, with both codenamed after civil war battles: Bullrun for the NSA and Edgehill for GCHQ.

The Guardian

Last year's choice of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in hindsight seems a similar act of wishful thinking.

The Guardian

It was a similar story for Battleship, an alien attack movie as American as McDonald's apple pie, which dropped anchor in 26 territories on 11 April, five weeks before it will dock on US shores.

The Guardian - Film

Earlier, a parenting campaigner named Margaret expressed a similar opinion: "If you can't provide for your child yourself, then wait 'til you can to have it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Other similar countries in Europe are helping far more people.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "similar", be specific about which aspects are alike to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "These products are similar", specify "These products are similar in price and functionality".

Common error

Avoid using "similar" when the items are nearly identical. Opt for words like "identical" or "same" to accurately reflect the relationship.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "similar" functions primarily to attribute a quality of likeness or resemblance between two or more entities. Ludwig examples show its role in comparing features, conditions, or results, aligning with Ludwig AI's assessment of correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "similar" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed adjective utilized to signify resemblance between items. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. With a strong presence in News & Media, it is essential to specify the aspects of likeness to enhance clarity. While versatile, remember to opt for more precise terms like "identical" when items are nearly the same. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively use "similar" to enrich your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alike

Focuses on the shared qualities to a greater extent.

comparable

Suggests that the items can be compared directly in terms of certain features.

akin

Implies a more inherent or essential similarity.

analogous

Emphasizes a parallel or correspondence between otherwise different things.

resembling

Focuses on visual or superficial similarities.

corresponding

Highlights a direct relationship or matching aspect between items.

of the same type

Indicates a shared category or classification.

matching

Suggests a precise correspondence or agreement.

equivalent

Focuses on having the same value or function.

sharing characteristics

Highlights the common features or traits between items.

FAQs

How can I use "similar" in a sentence?

Use "similar" to indicate a resemblance or likeness between two or more things. For example, "The two houses have "similar designs"".

What are some words I can use instead of "similar"?

Alternatives to "similar" include "alike", "comparable", "akin", and "analogous", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "similar to" or "similar with"?

"Similar to" is the correct and more common usage. "Similar with" is generally considered incorrect.

What's the difference between "similar" and "identical"?

"Similar" means having some likeness or resemblance, while "identical" means exactly the same. If two things are "identical", they share every attribute; if they are "similar", they share some but not all.