WordGarden.iosimilar
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈɪmɪlə/
US
- /ˈsɪmələr/
Meanings
Adjective
like another person or thing but not exactly the same
having the same shape though not necessarily the same size in geometry
Beyond the definition
Think of two fingerprints: each one is unique, but both can share the same kind of swirling pattern. That's what "similar" means. It does not mean identical; it means things share some qualities or features. You might describe two songs as similar if they both have a catchy beat and cheerful lyrics, even if the instruments are different. Or you could say your cousin is similar to you if you both love reading or have the same goofy laugh. "Similar" often comes up when comparing things. It is about noticing what they have in common, not saying they are perfect matches. A detective might look for similarities between crime scenes to spot a pattern.
"Similar" describes things that share qualities or characteristics but are not necessarily identical. It suggests a close match in some way without meaning an exact copy. It is often used when we want to point out a connection without saying two things are completely the same.
You might say two paintings are similar in style, even if they depict different subjects. Two friends might have similar interests, enjoying the same hobbies but having distinct personalities. In scientific contexts, "similar" can be quite precise—describing compounds with comparable molecular structures or species with shared genetic traits.
The context is important. Saying two cars are "similar" could mean they are both sedans, or it could mean they have similar horsepower and fuel efficiency. It is a flexible word that helps us understand how things relate to each other without needing them to be carbon copies.
Consider the phrase "birds of a feather flock together." This suggests people with similar personalities tend to associate with one another—not identical personalities, but ones with enough in common to create a bond.
Examples
- 1
Appearance
The twins look similar, but their voices are easy to tell apart.
- 2
Technology
My new phone is similar to my old one, so I learned to use it quickly.
- Patternsimilar to + noun
almost the same as it
- 3
Size comparison
The two bags are similar in size, but this one is lighter.
- 4
Work problem
We had a similar problem at work last month.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Sports style
The two teams play in a similar way, so the match should be close.
- 6
Substitute choice
If they don't have this sofa in gray, something similar will do.
- Phrasesomething similar
a thing that is close enough, though not exactly the same
- 7
Shared situations
People in similar situations often make the same mistake.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- similar to
- similar in
- strikingly similar
- broadly similar
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- similaradjective