How to Express Comparison in English

How to Express Comparison in English: 14 Useful Words and Phrases (B2–C1)

Hello English learners! Welcome to a new lesson. When we compare people, things, or ideas in English, we rarely do it with just one simple word. More often, we use a range of expressions to show that two things are similar, parallel, or connected in the same way. Some of these expressions show direct similarity, while others help us add a parallel idea in a natural, fluent way. In this lesson, you will learn how to express comparison in English. These expressions are especially helpful in essays, articles, reviews, and Cambridge B2–C1 exams (B2 First & C1 Advanced), where clear and natural linking is essential.

Alike

Meaning: similar; the same in appearance or nature.

• The three siblings looked very much alike.
• It’s rare to see couples who dress alike.

Similar to

Meaning: having many of the same qualities as something else.

• The houses in the city centre are similar to those in the suburbs.
• Her second novel is quite similar to her first one.

Like

Meaning: the same as; similar to.

• The whole journey felt like a dream.
• He looks like his father when he was young.

Like two peas in a pod

Meaning: extremely similar in appearance or character.

• The twin brothers look like two peas in a pod.
• They behave so similarly — they’re like two peas in a pod.

In the same way

Meaning: similarly; in a similar manner.

• The news affected her in the same way as it affected the rest of us.
• All the students were treated in the same way.

In a like manner

Meaning: in the same or a very similar way (rather formal).

• The two children held their toys in a like manner in the photo.
• The staff were instructed to respond in a like manner to all complaints.

Similarly

Meaning: in a similar way.

• Both sisters used to dress similarly when they were teenagers.
• The first room was cold and gloomy. Similarly, the second one felt unwelcoming.

Likewise

Meaning: in the same way; also (used to show similarity between situations). 

• The first exam was difficult, and the second was likewise challenging.
• He enjoyed the concert, and his friends did likewise.

How to express comparison in English

Equally

Meaning: in the same way or to the same degree.

• The flat and the house were equally impressive.
• She is equally talented at singing and acting.

By the same token

Meaning: for the same reason; in a similar line of argument (formal, often used in essays).

• If the company wants loyalty from its workers, by the same token it must treat them fairly.
• He criticises others for being late and, by the same token, should be more punctual himself.

Both … and …

Meaning: used to show that two things or people share the same quality or situation.

• Both grammar and vocabulary are important when learning a language.
• Both Mary and her brother enjoyed the film.

Not only … but also …

Meaning: used to link two similar or parallel ideas and emphasise both.

• The course improves not only your grammar but also your confidence.
• She speaks not only English but also French and Italian.

Also

Meaning: in addition; in the same way.

• The book is informative, but it’s also very entertaining.
• Italian cuisine is famous for pasta. Chinese cuisine also has wonderful noodle dishes.

Too

Meaning: in addition; as well (usually used at the end of a sentence).

• I enjoyed the film. My sister liked it too.
• He was tired, and he was hungry too.

Model example (B2–C1)

The first hotel was comfortable but quite expensive. The second one was likewise well located and equally clean, but it was cheaper. Both offered good service, and both had excellent reviews. In the same way, the restaurants nearby were similar in quality. By the same token, the overall experience in both places was very positive.

Final thoughts

Being able to express similarity and parallel ideas clearly will make your English sound more natural, more organised, and more advanced — especially in Cambridge writing and speaking tasks. Instead of repeating simple words, try using these expressions to link your ideas smoothly and confidently.

Good comparisons don’t just show how things are similar.

They show how good your English has become. 😉

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