when compared

USAGE SUMMARY

"when compared" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are contrasting two or more objects, ideas, or concepts by noting similarities and differences. For example, "When compared to a traditional laptop, the iPad has fewer features but is much more portable."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

when compared with peers who don't participate.

Harvard University

Cobrançosa (7.3 ± 3.2) when compared to cvs.

Nature

That's even truer when compared to no treatment at all.

Harvard University

Except when compared with the cuisine of Seni or Takanosu.

The New York Times - Travel

But that's nothing when compared with a film crew.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A leech looks downright sensible when compared with Botox.

The New York Times - Magazine

But it has limitations, particularly when compared with the US.

The Guardian

Sadly these seemed slightly limp when compared with Maier's fury.

The Guardian

But this new novel falls short when compared with "Rosa".

The New York Times - Books

For what are we when compared to water?

The Guardian - Film

Cheap when compared to a million-plus Turner.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "when compared", ensure that the elements being contrasted are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, "When compared to other electric vehicles, this model offers a longer range" is more precise than "When compared, this model is better."

Common error

Avoid incomplete comparisons by always specifying what is being compared to what. A common mistake is to say "The results improved when compared", without stating what they were compared to. Instead, use: "The results improved when compared to the previous study."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when compared" functions as a subordinate conjunction introducing a clause that provides a basis for comparison. Ludwig AI indicates that its function is grammatically correct, facilitating the presentation of contrasting or similar attributes between two or more subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

28%

News & Media

48%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when compared" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to introduce a comparative element in a sentence. As Ludwig AI affirms, it serves to highlight similarities or differences between subjects, making it a valuable tool for clear and precise communication. Its prevalence in scientific, news, and academic contexts underscores its utility in formal writing, though it's also acceptable in more informal settings. When using "when compared", ensure that the subjects being contrasted are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "compared to" or "in contrast to" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compared to

A shorter and more direct way to express comparison, suitable for most contexts.

in comparison with

This alternative provides a slightly more formal tone while retaining the core comparative meaning.

by comparison to

This phrase emphasizes the act of comparing, often highlighting differences.

in contrast to

Highlights differences more strongly than general comparisons.

relative to

Focuses on the proportional relationship between the items being compared.

as opposed to

Emphasizes a clear distinction or opposition between the items.

juxtaposed with

A more literary term suggesting items placed side-by-side for comparison.

when weighed against

Implies a careful evaluation of the merits and drawbacks of each item.

considering

This alternative broadens comparison by adding context.

versus

A concise way to indicate a direct comparison or competition.

FAQs

How do I use "when compared" in a sentence?

Use "when compared" to draw contrasts or parallels between two or more subjects. For example, "When compared with its competitors, this product offers more features at a lower price."

What phrases can I use instead of "when compared"?

Alternatives include "compared to", "in comparison with", or "in contrast to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "when comparing" instead of "when compared"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "When comparing" is used to describe the act of comparison itself, while "when compared" refers to the state after the comparison has been made.

What's the difference between "when compared to" and "when compared with"?

There's virtually no difference in meaning between "when compared to" and "when compared with"; both are acceptable. Some may argue "with" is slightly more formal, but the choice often comes down to personal preference.