virtually the same length

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "virtually the same length" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two or more items that have lengths that are very close to each other, but not exactly the same. Example: "The two pieces of rope are virtually the same length, making them suitable for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Its year is about the same length as ours.

MIT Technology Review

And the same length hair -- always almost to the neck.

The New York Times - Style

— Your legs are the same length?

The New Yorker

The cyclic keeps the same length.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The Venza is the same length as the Camry.

The New York Times

The legs aren't quite the same length.

The Guardian - Books

Cut each half to the same length, approximately 10cm.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"He has the same length and sinewy build," Lanier said.

The New York Times - Sports

All his irons are the same length.

Los Angeles Times

But all minutes do not have the same length.

Huffington Post

Make them all exactly the same length.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "virtually the same length", ensure that the context clearly indicates that the lengths being compared are not exactly identical, but close enough for the purpose at hand. For example, "Although the ropes were not perfectly cut, they were virtually the same length and worked for the project."

Common error

Avoid using "virtually the same length" when the items are, in fact, exactly the same length. The phrase implies a negligible difference, so using it for exact matches is misleading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "virtually the same length" functions as a descriptive phrase, modifying a noun by indicating that something has a length that is almost, but not quite, identical to something else. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

38%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "virtually the same length" is a descriptive term used to indicate that two or more items have lengths that are very similar but not perfectly identical. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in English. It is commonly used in scientific and news contexts to convey near equality while acknowledging a slight difference. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clarifies that the lengths are close enough for practical purposes but not exactly the same. Alternatives include "almost identical in length" and "nearly the same length".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

almost identical in length

Emphasizes the similarity in length, suggesting a very slight difference may exist.

nearly the same length

Indicates the lengths are very close, with a minor deviation.

practically the same length

Highlights the functional equivalence of the lengths, even if not perfectly identical.

essentially the same length

Focuses on the core similarity, downplaying any minor differences in length.

roughly the same length

Suggests an approximation of length, allowing for a more noticeable difference.

about the same length

Indicates an estimated similarity in length, implying less precision.

more or less the same length

Acknowledges some variability but asserts overall similarity in length.

comparable in length

Highlights that lengths can be compared favorably but not necessarily identical.

similar in length

A general statement of likeness, allows for a more considerable difference in length.

of approximately equal length

Formally expresses a similarity in length within a margin of error.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "virtually the same length"?

Use "virtually the same length" when comparing two or more items that have lengths that are very close but not perfectly identical. The "virtually" indicates a negligible difference.

What are some alternatives to saying "virtually the same length"?

You can use alternatives like "almost identical in length", "nearly the same length", or "practically the same length" depending on the context and the degree of similarity you want to convey.

How does "virtually the same length" differ from "exactly the same length"?

"Virtually the same length" indicates a very slight difference that is negligible for practical purposes, while "exactly the same length" means there is no difference at all. Using "exactly the same length" implies precision, whereas "virtually" acknowledges a potential minor variation.

Can "virtually the same length" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "virtually the same length" is suitable for formal writing. The word "virtually" adds a level of precision, making it appropriate for academic and professional contexts.