"compare to" vs "compare with"

Question

"compare to" vs "compare with"

Both 'compare with' and 'compare to' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Compare with' is used to highlight similarities and differences between two or more things, while 'compare to' is used to liken one thing to another for illustrative purposes.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

Use 'compare to' when you want to liken one thing to another for illustrative or metaphorical purposes. It is often used to create vivid imagery or make a point.

Examples:

Her eyes were like diamonds, compared to the stars in the night sky.
The situation can be compared to a ticking time bomb, ready to explode at any moment.
His voice was compared to that of an angel, so pure and melodious.
The journey of life is often compared to a rollercoaster, with its ups and downs.
The feeling of love can be compared to a warm embrace, comforting and reassuring.

Alternatives:

liken to
analogous to
resemble
equate with
draw a parallel between

English speakers often use "compare with" or "compare to." Usage depends on region.

"Compare to" is often preferred in American English.

"Compare with" and "compare to" are both used in British English.

Explanation provided by a TextRanch English expert

Some examples from our editors:

Nobody's writing can compare with Shakespeare's.
The report will compare Chicago's infrastructure with the infrastructure of other cities.
I can't believe that he thinks his painting can compare with the Mona Lisa.

Some alternatives from our editors:

compare to

Answer 1

compare to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to liken one thing to another for illustrative purposes.

Answer 2

compare with

This is correct

"compare to" vs "compare with"

compare to

compare with

Related Comparisons