Words / B2

KOMP-uh-r-uh-bl/ˈkɒmpərəbl/

Comparable means similar enough to put side by side — not identical, but in the same league. You say comparable to / with, and comparable in size / difficulty. Similar is everyday and looser; equal claims they match exactly. Incomparable means so good you cannot compare, a different word. Comparability is a technical noun in research.

Meaning

Similar enough to be compared; of a similar level.

Examples

• “The two courses are comparable in difficulty.”
• “London prices are not comparable with those in Leeds.”
• “Use a comparable sample if you repeat the test.”

Good to know

comparable to/with. comparable in + quality. Everyday: similar. Not the same as equal.

Near in meaning

similar

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