alike
adjective
UK/əˈlaɪk/US/əˈlaɪk/
similar to each other; the same or nearly the same in appearance or nature
Example Sentences
The twins look so much alike that it's hard to tell them apart even to their closest friends.
Despite their different backgrounds, their values and goals are remarkably alike, fostering a strong and harmonious partnership.
The new smartphone models are alike in many features, but each has its unique design elements that cater to different user preferences.
In the garden, the roses and tulips are alike in their vibrant colors and fragrant scents, creating a picturesque floral display.
Their approaches to problem-solving are alike, emphasizing creativity and collaboration to achieve the best outcomes.
Although they pursued different careers, their dedication and work ethic are alike, leading both to achieve significant success in their respective fields.
The two novels are alike in theme, exploring the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of personal identity.
During the renovation, the architects ensured that the new buildings are alike in style, maintaining a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing neighborhood.
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adverb
UK/əˈlaɪk/US/əˈlaɪk/
in a similar manner; in the same way
Example Sentences
They approached the project alike, each contributing their unique skills to achieve a common goal.
Both leaders responded alike to the crisis, prioritizing the safety and well-being of their communities through decisive and compassionate actions.
She handled the criticism alike to praise, maintaining her composure and using feedback constructively to improve her performance.
The siblings reacted alike to the surprise announcement, sharing a mixture of excitement and nervousness about the upcoming changes.
In the debate, both candidates presented their arguments alike, focusing on factual evidence and logical reasoning to persuade the audience.
During the training session, the participants were instructed to perform the exercises alike, ensuring consistency and effectiveness in their workout routines.
The artists collaborated alike on the mural, blending their individual styles seamlessly to create a harmonious and visually striking piece of art.
When faced with challenges, the team members worked alike, supporting each other and pooling their resources to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
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How to Use
Showing strong resemblance in form or behavior; identical or nearly the same.Use “alike” to emphasize similarity between two or more people, objects, or situations. As an adjective, “alike” often follows a linking verb—e.g., “They look alike,” meaning their appearances are very similar. It can also function as an adverb—“They think alike”—to indicate a shared manner or approach. “Alike” works especially well when drawing parallels or highlighting matching qualities in comparisons: “The twins dress alike,” “Their reactions were alike in many ways.” Whether addressing physical resemblance, shared interests, or parallel experiences, “alike” underscores how two or more entities closely mirror each other. Typically, “alike” appears after the subjects it’s describing, though you can rearrange sentence structure for emphasis—“Alike in temperament, they both thrived in creative environments.” In everyday conversation or writing, “alike” provides a direct, concise way to say that something or someone is highly similar or nearly identical, whether discussing people, objects, or abstract concepts.
Alternatives
If you want alternatives, “similar,” “resembling,” or “akin” can capture the notion of likeness. “Similar” is the most common substitute, while “akin” leans slightly more formal or old-fashioned, often used in broader comparisons—“Your idea is akin to what we tried last year.” “Comparable” or “analogous” might appear in academic or technical contexts, signaling parallels without implying they’re exactly the same. In less formal contexts, “the same” implies strict identity, but it doesn’t allow for slight differences the way “alike” does. When describing two items sharing traits, you might use “look like each other” or “sound alike” for more specific senses—e.g., physical appearance, voice, or style. Each synonym tweaks the sense of closeness or exactness, so choose based on whether you wish to stress near-identity or partial resemblance. Meanwhile, using “in common” (“They have a lot in common”) can highlight shared traits without implying they’re identical. Selecting the right term ensures clarity about how closely two things align and avoids overstating or understating similarities.
Writing
When writing with “alike,” decide if you’re highlighting a characteristic (“Their singing voices sound alike”) or a deeper, conceptual resemblance (“Their philosophical views are quite alike”). Including supporting details clarifies your meaning—e.g., specifying in what ways two people are alike: “In mannerisms and humor, the siblings were remarkably alike.” In comparative essays or analyses, you might juxtapose similarities and differences: “Though they share some alike qualities—such as persistence and adaptability—these two species also diverge significantly in habitat choice.” In narrative writing, using “alike” can quickly convey a shared trait, forging a link between characters or settings. However, overusing it may feel repetitive, so alternate with synonyms like “similar,” “parallel,” or “much the same” to maintain variety. When referencing data or case studies, ensure readers know which specific factors or measures are alike—quantify or categorize them for clear parallels. By coupling “alike” with precise descriptions, you make the resemblance meaningful and grounded, letting readers see exactly how the subjects mirror each other and why that similarity matters to your broader argument or story.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “alike” often appears when noting resemblances—“Your dogs look so alike I can’t tell them apart!” or “They think so much alike, it’s scary.” You might casually remark, “Our kids dress alike in matching pajamas.” Friends might comment that two people talk alike, describing similar speech patterns or slang. “Alike” is direct and easy to understand, keeping the conversation light. It also emphasizes that you noticed a strong resemblance—be it style, tastes, or personalities. Sometimes, you can shorten it to “They’re so alike!” and the context clarifies what is similar—appearance, outlook, or mannerisms. If you want to be more playful, you could say, “They’re basically twins!” but “alike” is a straightforward go-to. Whether describing family members, pets, or even experiences that feel remarkably similar, sprinkling “alike” into casual speech naturally conveys the impression of closeness without feeling overly formal or repetitive.
Etymology
“Alike” emerged from Middle English, combining the prefix “a-” (indicating “in the manner of”) with “like,” meaning “similar” or “of the same form.” Historically, Old English “gelīc” or “līc” referred to likeness or resemblance, and over centuries, variants of “like” evolved into adverbial and adjectival forms. By the late Middle Ages, “alike” was well established as an English term denoting similarity in appearance, behavior, or essence. This linguistic inheritance underscores the shared root notion of ‘likeness’—akin to how “like” indicates resemblance, while “alike” further intensifies it, suggesting near or exact congruence in traits. Today, the word remains central for expressing comparability or mirror-like qualities between two or more entities, bridging older Germanic language foundations with modern usage patterns.
