they are the same

USAGE SUMMARY

'they are the same' is a perfectly valid and understandable sentence in written English.
It can be used whenever you want to express that two or more things are identical or equal to each other. For example, "I thought that the two products were different, but when I compared them side by side, it turns out they are the same."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are the same.

The New York Times

They are the same man.

Independent

"They are the same person".

The New York Times

They are the same memory.

The New Yorker

They are the same people.

The New York Times

"They are the same flavors.

The New York Times

"They are the same," she said.

The New York Times

They are the same color and shape.

The New Yorker

"They are the same grassroots," he claimed.

Independent

"They are the same wave, actually".

Independent

Otherwise, they are the same.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they are the same" to clearly state that two or more subjects share identical qualities or characteristics. Ensure the context makes it clear what "they" refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "they are the same" when describing nuanced similarities. For complex relationships, opt for more descriptive language that acknowledges differences and subtleties. For example, instead of saying "Their approaches are the same," consider "Their approaches share common principles but diverge in execution."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are the same" functions as a predicate nominative, equating the subject ("they") with a noun or pronoun that renames it. This construction asserts that the referents of "they" share identical qualities. Ludwig confirms this is a grammatically sound construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

15%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they are the same" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate that two or more entities are identical. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and understandable sentence in written English. While versatile, it's best used in contexts where a clear and direct statement of equivalence is needed, and should be avoided when describing nuanced similarities. Alternatives such as "they are identical" or "they are equivalent" can add formality, but the phrase's neutrality allows it to be effective across various registers. With its high frequency in news and media, understanding its function and appropriate usage is key for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are one and the same

Classic idiom that emphasizes a single shared identity or essence.

they are identical

Emphasizes perfect sameness, a stronger assertion of equivalence.

they are equivalent

Highlights functional similarity, focusing on comparable value or effect.

they are alike

Indicates similarity without necessarily implying exact equivalence.

they are comparable

Suggests similarity to the point of being able to be compared

they are fundamentally the same

Highlights shared core characteristics despite superficial differences.

they are essentially the same

Similar to fundamentally, but can also imply a simplification or reduction to core elements.

they are indistinguishable

Focuses on the inability to tell them apart, emphasizing a lack of perceptible difference.

they are virtually the same

Acknowledges minor differences but stresses overall similarity.

they are of a kind

Indicates that things belongs to the same category or type

FAQs

How can I rephrase "they are the same" to sound more formal?

In formal writing, consider using phrases like "they are identical", "they are equivalent", or "they are one and the same". These alternatives ("they are identical", "they are equivalent", "they are one and the same") convey the same meaning with a more sophisticated tone.

What does "they are the same" imply?

The phrase "they are the same" indicates that two or more things share identical qualities, characteristics, or functions. It asserts a complete equivalence between the subjects being compared.

Is it ever incorrect to use "they are the same"?

While grammatically correct, overuse of "they are the same" can lead to oversimplification. In contexts requiring nuanced comparisons, more descriptive language that acknowledges both similarities and differences may be more appropriate.

When is it best to use "they are one and the same" instead of "they are the same"?

The phrase "they are one and the same" emphasizes a single, shared identity or essence. It is particularly effective when you want to stress that two seemingly distinct entities are, in fact, fundamentally connected or inseparable. Use "they are one and the same" ("they are one and the same") to add emphasis.