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

He sprinted away for a similar, 47-yard gain on the very next drive.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

For Hayley, coming off social media "was not an option", as that's where she found other women going through similar experiences.

Read more on BBC

As for a similar troop deployment in Democratic-ruled Portland, Oregon, a three-member appeals court panel was weighing whether to lift another judge's temporary block of the mobilization.

Read more on Barron's

In a similar case challenging Bovino’s approach in Los Angeles, the Supreme Court allowed his operation to continue while the lawsuit proceeds.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

It followed a failed 2022 sports betting initiative that the tribes spent millions of dollars to sponsor and that included a similar provision that would have let the tribes sue.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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