this is akin to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is akin to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to draw a comparison or similarity between two concepts, ideas, or situations. Example: "This new policy is akin to the previous one, as both aim to improve employee satisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

This is akin to child pornography.

The New York Times

This is akin to state-sanctioned torture.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is akin to returning a child to abusive parents.

The New York Times

Among competitive charities, this is akin to an arms race.

The Guardian - Opinion

In the Northwest, this is akin to Mayflower lineage.

The New York Times - Books

Perhaps, but this is akin to saying that Annapurna is smaller than Everest.

Independent

To critics of the N.Y.P.D., this is akin to racial profiling.

The New York Times

But admitting to this is akin to outing yourself as a serial kitten puncher.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is akin to saying peace is the solution to war.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This is akin to the concept of international waters on the ocean.

The Guardian

"This is akin to saying, 'Dinosaurs roamed the Earth more than 500 years ago,' " he said.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is akin to" to draw a comparison that clarifies a complex concept by relating it to something more familiar. Be sure the analogy is accurate and helps the reader understand the original subject better.

Common error

Avoid using "this is akin to" when the comparison is too weak or far-fetched. A poorly chosen analogy can confuse readers and weaken your argument. Ensure the connection is clear and relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is akin to" functions as a comparative connector, linking two distinct concepts or situations to highlight their similarities. It introduces an analogy, helping to clarify or emphasize a point by drawing a parallel with something more familiar or understandable, according to Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is akin to" is a versatile phrase used to draw comparisons between different subjects, offering a means to clarify complex ideas through relatable analogies. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and very common across a range of sources, from news and media to scientific publications. While generally neutral in tone, leaning toward slightly formal, it is best utilized when the comparison is accurate and strengthens understanding. Be mindful of overstating the analogy, ensuring the connection remains clear and relevant to avoid confusion. For alternative phrasing, consider "this is similar to", "this is comparable to", or "this is analogous to" for variations in formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is similar to

Replaces "akin" with "similar", offering a slightly less formal comparison.

this is comparable to

Uses "comparable" to suggest that the items being compared are of similar quality or nature.

this is analogous to

Employs "analogous", implying a deeper, more structural similarity between the two things being compared.

this is equivalent to

Suggests that the two items are essentially the same in value or effect.

this is like

A more informal way of drawing a comparison, suitable for casual contexts.

this resembles

Indicates a similarity in appearance or characteristics.

this mirrors

Suggests a very close or exact similarity, like a reflection.

this is on par with

Implies that the items being compared are at the same level or standard.

this equates to

Indicates that the two items are equal in terms of result or value.

this parallels

Suggests that the items follow a similar course or have corresponding features.

FAQs

How can I use "this is akin to" in a sentence?

Use "this is akin to" to draw a comparison between two different things. For example, "Saying that all politicians are corrupt, "this is akin to" saying that all doctors are greedy".

What phrases are similar to "this is akin to"?

Alternatives include "this is similar to", "this is comparable to", or "this is analogous to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "this is akin to" formal or informal?

"This is akin to" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. More informal options include "this is like" or "this is similar to".

What's the difference between "this is akin to" and "this is tantamount to"?

"This is akin to" suggests a comparison or analogy, while "this is tantamount to" implies equivalence, often in a negative or serious context. "This is akin to" draws a parallel, while "this is tantamount to" asserts that something is virtually the same as something else, usually something undesirable.