virtually the same

USAGE SUMMARY

"virtually the same" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate that two things are almost identical, but not exactly the same. For example: "The two cars were virtually the same in terms of size and power."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

ESPN will keep virtually the same schedule.

The New York Times - Sports

The structure is virtually the same.

The New York Times

Today, the picture is virtually the same.

The New Yorker

But once stopped, the arrest rates were virtually the same.

The New York Times

Their career prize money is virtually the same.

The New York Times

Camp routine was virtually the same every evening.

The New York Times - Travel

The response was virtually the same everywhere: Anger.

The New York Times

Six years later, the proportion remained virtually the same.

The Economist

In statistical terms, these are virtually the same.

The New York Times

But he and Larkin were virtually the same.

The New York Times - Sports

Last year the numbers were virtually the same.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "virtually the same" when you want to convey that two things are so alike that any differences are negligible for practical purposes. It adds a nuance that acknowledges potential minor distinctions.

Common error

Avoid using "virtually the same" when there are significant or consequential differences. Using it in such cases can mislead your audience and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "virtually the same" functions as an adverbial modifier describing the degree to which two or more things are similar. It softens a statement of equivalence, acknowledging slight, often insignificant differences. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

43%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "virtually the same" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a high degree of similarity, with minor differences acknowledged. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability across various contexts. It functions as an adverbial modifier, adding nuance to statements of equivalence, particularly in Science and News & Media. When writing, remember to use it when there is a close but inexact match and avoid overstating the equivalence if notable distinctions exist. Alternatives like "almost identical" or "substantially similar" can be used depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

almost identical

Indicates a very high degree of similarity, nearly indistinguishable.

practically equivalent

Emphasizes the functional equivalence despite possible minor differences.

nearly identical

Highlights the closeness of the match, suggesting very few differences.

substantially similar

Focuses on the significant overlap and resemblance between the subjects.

essentially alike

Stresses the fundamental sameness in nature or constitution.

tantamount to

Implies that the subjects are equal in effect or value.

for all intents and purposes the same

Highlights that, despite possible technical differences, the practical outcome is equivalent.

much the same

A more casual way of saying that two things are very similar.

comparable

Implies that the subjects can be fairly compared due to shared characteristics.

roughly equivalent

Indicates an approximate similarity, allowing for some degree of variation.

FAQs

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

You can use "virtually the same" to describe things that are very similar but not completely identical. For example, "The two products are "virtually the same" in terms of functionality".

What's a good alternative to "virtually the same"?

Alternatives include "almost identical", "nearly identical", or "substantially similar", depending on the degree of similarity you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "virtually the same" in formal writing?

Yes, "virtually the same" is appropriate for formal writing. It's a clear and professional way to express near equivalence. However, ensure that the context warrants its use and that there are no meaningful differences between the subjects being compared.

What is the difference between "virtually the same" and "exactly the same"?

"Virtually the same" indicates a very high degree of similarity with minor, often negligible differences. "Exactly the same" implies complete identity with no differences whatsoever. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the relationship between the items being compared.