same
The word 'same' is used to describe things or people that are identical or not different from each other. It indicates that two or more things are exactly alike in every way or are the very same entity.
Examples
3 of 5We live in the same house.
We live in the same house.
The participants were given the same instructions to ensure fairness.
The participants were given the same instructions to ensure fairness.
I'll have the same, please.
I'll have the same, please.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the 'S' in 'Same' as standing for 'Single' identity—two items that are actually just one type.
Quick Quiz
My brother and I go to ______ school.
Correct!
The correct answer is: the same
Examples
We live in the same house.
everydayWe live in the same house.
The participants were given the same instructions to ensure fairness.
formalThe participants were given the same instructions to ensure fairness.
I'll have the same, please.
informalI'll have the same, please.
Both groups in the study produced the same statistical outcome.
academicBoth groups in the study produced the same statistical outcome.
Our revenue targets for this year are the same as last year.
businessOur revenue targets for this year are the same as last year.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
all the same
nevertheless / despite that
same here
I agree / I feel the same way
one and the same
the exact same person or thing
Often Confused With
'Same' means 100% identical, while 'similar' means they share some features but have differences.
Usage Notes
The word 'same' is almost always used with the definite article 'the'. When comparing two things, it is typically followed by the word 'as'.
Common Mistakes
Learners often omit 'the' before 'same'. For example, they might say 'we have same car' instead of 'we have the same car'.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'S' in 'Same' as standing for 'Single' identity—two items that are actually just one type.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old Norse word 'samr', meaning 'even, level, or like'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In English-speaking cultures, saying 'the same' is a very common and polite way to order identical food or drinks as a companion in a restaurant.
Quick Quiz
My brother and I go to ______ school.
Correct!
The correct answer is: the same
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
More comparison words
other
A1Refers to a person or thing that is different or distinct from the one already mentioned. It is also used to indicate something additional or remaining in a set.
different
A1This word describes things that are not the same as each other. It is used to show a contrast between two or more people, places, or objects.
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