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

Ghares, 50, had already been convicted in another case in May last year on similar charges and sentenced to one year in prison, though he was not jailed pending appeal to the Supreme Court.

Read more on Barron's

Whether male or female, young or old, vampires have been treated in curiously similar fashion.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Most climate models studying SAI assume the use of sulfate aerosols, similar to the compounds produced by volcanic eruptions.

Read more on Science Daily

In optics, a similar process occurs when two mirrors trap light between them, creating a standing wave inside what scientists call a cavity.

Read more on Science Daily

Another woman, who testified under the pseudonym Jane, said she felt pressured to participate in similar encounters even if she was unwell.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

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