similar

[sim-uh-ler]

adjective

1. having a likeness or resemblance, especially in a general way.

   two similar houses.

   Synonyms: like
   Antonyms: different

2. Geometry.,  (of figures) having the same shape; having corresponding sides proportional and corresponding angles equal.

   similar triangles.

3. Mathematics.,  (of two square matrices) related by means of a similarity transformation.

similar

/ ˈsɪmɪlə, ˌsɪmɪˈlærɪtɪ /

adjective

1. showing resemblance in qualities, characteristics, or appearance; alike but not identical

2. geometry (of two or more figures) having corresponding angles equal and all corresponding sides in the same ratio Compare congruent

3. maths (of two classes) equinumerous

Usage

As should not be used after similar: Wilson held a similar position to Jones (not a similar position as Jones ); the system is similar to the one in France (not similar as the one in France )

Other Word Forms

• similarity noun
• similarly adverb
• nonsimilar adjective
• quasi-similar adjective
• self-similar adjective
• unsimilar adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of similar¹

First recorded in 1605–15; earlier similary, from French similaire or directly from Medieval Latin similāris, equivalent to Latin simili(s) “like, similar” (akin to simul “together”; simplex ) + -āris -ar ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of similar¹

C17: from Old French similaire, from Latin similis

Synonym Study

See same.

Example Sentences

And it doesn’t take a discerning eye to realize that the horror movies distributed and produced by these companies share similar themes and narratives to their awards-bait dramas, told in ways that skew scarier.

Read more on Salon

In recent months, GOP-controlled legislatures in Texas and Missouri have approved new congressional boundaries designed to add Republican seats, while legislators in Kansas and Indiana are considering similar steps.

Read more on Salon

Senate Republicans added a $50 billion relief fund to the bill at the last minute for rural hospitals, but no similar bailout was included for urban hospitals.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Dia, available for Mac users only, has a similar AI sidepanel powered by a mix of different models and impressed me with its programmable “skills.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Although the study was conducted in mice, scientists say that if similar results are seen in humans, cysteine from food or supplements might offer a new way to help the intestine recover faster after injury.

Read more on Science Daily

Related Words

• akin 
• analogous 
• comparable 
• complementary 
• identical 
• related