substantially the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantially the same" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to indicate that two things are very similar or nearly identical in most important aspects. Example: "The two proposals are substantially the same, differing only in minor details."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(i Sold at substantially the same time.

Cornell University

Substantially the same language is used in 1 Chitty, Crim.

Cornell University

The second mortgage contained substantially the same provisions.

Cornell University

The bonds are sold at substantially the same time.

Cornell University

Now, substantially the same thing appears to be happening again.

The New York Times

He said he planned to issue substantially the same decision in 10 days.

The New York Times

Most experts believe his platform is substantially the same as Putin's, with any differences merely stylistic.

The Guardian

Thereafter, my technique, while remaining substantially the same, developed small refinements.

The New Yorker

Thornton's petition and the pleadings of the Cleveland Company are substantially the same.

Cornell University

The carrier's basic claims on the merits are substantially the same as in those proceedings.

Cornell University

Both have legal training and both perform substantially the same functions, but there the similarities cease.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "substantially the same" when you want to convey that two things are almost, but not perfectly, identical. This implies that any differences are minor or insignificant in the context.

Common error

Avoid using "substantially the same" if there are significant differences between the items being compared. Opt for phrases like "somewhat similar" or "related" to more accurately reflect the relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantially the same" functions primarily as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a high degree of similarity or near identity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "substantially the same" is a versatile phrase used to express a high degree of similarity, allowing for minor differences. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and finds frequent application in various contexts, including academia, news reporting, and encyclopedic content. When using this phrase, ensure that the items being compared are indeed very similar, avoiding its application when significant disparities exist. Consider alternatives like "largely identical" or "virtually identical" for nuanced expression. The phrase maintains a neutral to formal register, making it suitable for professional and objective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

largely identical

Emphasizes that most aspects are identical, but allows for minor differences.

mostly equivalent

Highlights the equivalence in function or effect, even if not identical in form.

virtually identical

Stresses that any differences are negligible in practice.

practically the same

Indicates that the differences are insignificant from a practical standpoint.

nearly identical

Focuses on the closeness of the match, suggesting very few differences.

almost indistinguishable

Suggests that it's difficult to tell the difference between the items.

tantamount to

Implies that the two things are equal in effect or value.

much alike

A simpler way to express a high degree of similarity.

comparable to

Suggests similarities that allow for comparison, but not necessarily identity.

broadly similar

Highlights the overall similarity, even if there are notable differences in detail.

FAQs

How can I use "substantially the same" in a sentence?

You can use "substantially the same" to indicate that two things are very similar, with only minor differences. For example, "The revised contract is "substantially the same" as the original, except for the payment terms."

What's the difference between "substantially the same" and "identical"?

"Identical" means exactly the same, without any differences. "Substantially the same" implies a very high degree of similarity, but allows for minor differences. Use "substantially the same" when perfect equality is not claimed or present.

Are there more formal alternatives to "substantially the same"?

Yes, in formal contexts, you could use phrases like "largely identical", "mostly equivalent", or "virtually identical" for a more sophisticated tone.

Is it correct to say "essentially the same" instead of "substantially the same"?

Yes, "essentially the same" is a valid alternative and carries a similar meaning, suggesting that the core aspects are the same, even if there are superficial differences.