similarities

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "similarities" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing common features or characteristics shared by two or more subjects. Example: "The similarities between the two novels highlight the authors' shared themes of love and loss."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Such comparisons are an increasingly rich aspect of planetary science, illuminating both the differences between bodies that started off similar, and the similarities between things that seem at first utterly alien to each other.

The Economist

He said Morwell had some similarities with the federal seat of Indi, where the independent Cathy McGowan defeated Liberal frontbencher Sophie Mirabella after a grassroots campaign to engage local people about political issues.

The Guardian

The block-letter handwriting bears some similarities and crucially Balestrero misspells the word "drawer" as "draw" – the same mistake as the robber made.

The Guardian

Genuine respect for the understanding of each other's differences and, for that matter, similarities is now developing".

The Guardian

Little is known about the project, other than its title, Chiraq, which is a nickname given to Chicago in reference to its similarities with Iraq after an increase in gun violence.

The Guardian - Film

A longstanding commitment to unilateral nuclear disarmament also enabled nationalists to present themselves as more leftwing than Labour, and while on Trident they clearly were, it conveniently overshadowed similarities in economic terms.

The Guardian

He is particularly anxious to make plain that Willy Loman – the flawed and defeated patriarch – in Death of a Salesman is not based on his father, though "one of the other characters has some similarities with an uncle".

The Guardian

He sees the similarities between Scotland and Catalonia but also warns against exaggerating them.

The Guardian

Related: The Royals: guaranteed to be the trashiest thing on TV The Royals, a 10-part royalty romp (yes, you can actually use the word "romp" for this show) on E!, is based on a fictional royal family with more than a few similarities to our own and plays out like The Tudors, if it were written by a team of overdramatic 17-year-old Gossip Girl fans.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The BFI has meanwhile written: "Please note: Wild Tales is a work of fiction, and any similarities with real events is an unintentional and regrettable coincidence".

The Guardian - Film

A further study, published in the American Journal of Kidney Disease, found increased levels of kidney damage in El Salvador's hot, low-lying areas but not in its cooler high-altitude sugar plantations, despite similarities in agrochemical use.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "similarities" to build persuasive arguments by linking unfamiliar concepts to well-known ones, thus making complex ideas more accessible and relatable.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the "similarities" between subjects to create misleading impressions. Ensure that comparisons are accurate and supported by evidence, acknowledging any significant differences.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "similarities" is that of a plural noun. It denotes multiple instances of resemblance or likeness between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI shows, it's often used to highlight common features.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "similarities" functions as a plural noun, highlighting common traits between subjects. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, particularly in News & Media. While "similarities" is typically neutral, it's crucial to avoid overstating likenesses to maintain accuracy. Consider using alternatives like "commonalities" or "resemblances" for nuanced expression. Remember to accurately represent the degree of "similarities" to avoid misrepresentation. To prevent overstating "similarities", always provide evidence and acknowledge differences to support your claims.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

commonalities

Focuses on shared attributes or features.

resemblances

Highlights visual or superficial likenesses.

parallels

Emphasizes corresponding or analogous aspects.

correspondences

Stresses matching or equivalent characteristics.

likenesses

Indicates comparable qualities or features.

analogies

Highlights relationships or comparisons between different things.

common points

Directly refers to shared aspects or characteristics.

shared traits

Emphasizes common characteristics or features.

matching features

Highlights equivalent attributes or qualities.

points of agreement

Focuses on aspects where subjects align or correspond.

FAQs

How do I use "similarities" in a sentence?

You can use "similarities" to highlight shared attributes. For example: "The "similarities between the two plans" are striking."

What are some alternatives to "similarities"?

Alternatives include "commonalities", "resemblances", and "parallels", depending on the specific context.

How do "similarities" differ from "differences"?

"Similarities" refer to shared characteristics, while "differences" highlight contrasting aspects. Recognizing both is crucial for a comprehensive understanding.

Is it correct to say "the similarities is"?

No, "similarities" is a plural noun, so the correct phrase is "the similarities are". For example, "The "similarities are obvious"".