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

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

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

The Gen Z uprising in Madagascar followed shortly after similar protests in Nepal in September 2025.

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Marineland, like other similar parks, suffered falling revenues over broadening global resistance to attractions where captive mammals are trained to perform.

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In September, YouTube TV avoided a similar blackout of NBC channels by making a deal just hours before the deadline.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Countries like Canada and Japan are facing similar demographic shifts but have introduced care-specific visa pathways and national caregiver pipelines, as detailed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

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Policy makers face similar questions as Beijing continues pressing for a more consumption-driven economy.

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Related Words

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