similar

/ˈsɪmɪlɚ/
having a likeness or resemblance

The two paintings are similar in style.

They share a resemblance in artistic technique.


general

having qualities or features that are alike or comparable

The twins have similar facial features.

They look alike because they share many facial characteristics.

This software has a similar function to the previous version.

It performs comparable tasks to the earlier edition.

Often used to describe objects, people, or concepts that share notable characteristics.

Collocations

similar tohaving a resemblance tonot similarlacking resemblancevery similarextremely alike

Related Phrases

similar tophrase
having a resemblance to
not similarphrase
lacking resemblance

Pro Tip

Comparative Usage

Use 'similar to' when comparing two things directly, e.g., 'This is similar to that.'

Avoid Overuse

Be specific when describing similarities to avoid vague comparisons.

Gold Rule

Precision in Comparison

Always specify what aspects are similar to avoid ambiguity.

Word Origin

From Middle English 'similare,' from Old French 'similaire,' from Latin 'similis' meaning 'like, resembling.'

Usage Notes

Commonly used to compare objects, ideas, or people. Often followed by 'to' when making direct comparisons.

Word Breakdown

simil
like, resembling
root
+
-ar
having the quality of
suffix
English Dictionary