The English language, rich with nuance, often presents us with choices that can be perplexing. One such point of confusion arises when we talk about comparisons and whether to use “compare to” or “compare with.” While both phrases serve to highlight similarities and differences between items, subtle distinctions in their traditional usage can alter the meaning you intend to convey. Let’s break down the traditional guidelines and explore how modern usage has evolved.
The Traditional Distinction: “Compare To” for Likeness, “Compare With” for Differences
Historically, grammar guides have drawn a clear line between “compare to” and “compare with.” The rule of thumb suggested that:
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Compare to: This phrase was reserved for pointing out similarities between things that are essentially of a different order or category. You use “compare to” when you are drawing an analogy or metaphor, highlighting a resemblance between fundamentally unlike things.
- Example: “Life has often been compared to a journey.” (Life and a journey are different concepts being linked by a similarity).
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Compare with: Conversely, “compare with” was used when placing two things of the same general category side-by-side to examine both their similarities and, more importantly, their differences. This phrase is used for analytical comparison between similar items.
- Example: “Let’s compare the performance of this new laptop with last year’s model.” (Both are laptops, being directly evaluated against each other).
Modern Flexibility: Usage Today
While the traditional distinction provides a useful framework, modern English usage is more flexible. Many style guides and dictionaries acknowledge that “compare to” and “compare with” are often used interchangeably, especially in general contexts. In contemporary writing and speech, you’ll frequently find “compare to” used in situations where “compare with” might have been traditionally preferred, and vice versa.
- Example of interchangeable use: “You can’t compare a budget smartphone to [or with] a high-end DSLR camera in terms of image quality.”
This example demonstrates that both “to” and “with” can effectively convey the intended meaning of highlighting significant differences between two items, even though they might be considered in different categories (consumer electronics, but different types).
Key Takeaway: Clarity and Context are Key
Ultimately, while understanding the traditional nuances of “compare to” and “compare with” can refine your writing, the most important aspect is ensuring clarity. In many cases, the context will make your intended meaning clear regardless of whether you choose “to” or “with.”
If you aim for precision in formal writing, especially when emphasizing metaphorical likeness versus analytical comparison, adhering to the traditional guidelines can be beneficial. However, in everyday communication, focusing on constructing clear and understandable sentences should take precedence. Don’t let the choice between “compare to” and “compare with” overshadow the core message you want to convey – the comparison itself.
