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 )

Derived Forms

• similarity, noun
• ˈsimilarly, adverb

Other Words From

• sim·i·lar·ly adverb
• non·sim·i·lar adjective
• qua·si-sim·i·lar adjective
• self-sim·i·lar adjective
• un·sim·i·lar 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

It is colourless and has a similar smell to ethyl alcohol - the chemical substance found in alcoholic drinks.

From BBC

Bailey, John McGinn, and Jacob Ramsey could all find form soon, and in fact Villa’s attacking numbers are broadly similar to last season.

From BBC

It remains to be seen if the company will take similar action in 2025.

From Salon

According to a KTU professor, due to the growing demand for AI solutions that directly affect people in areas such as healthcare, finance, and the legal system, similar requirements are becoming common.

From Science Daily

Typically, closely related animal species have difficulty coexisting because they are competing for the same or similar resources.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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