like-for-like vs apple-to-apple

The correct phrase is "like-for-like." The expression is commonly used to compare things that are similar or equivalent. On the other hand, "apple-to-apple" is not a standard phrase in English.

Last updated: March 27, 2024 • 1817 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to compare things that are similar or equivalent.

"like-for-like"

Use "like-for-like" when you want to emphasize a direct comparison between similar items or situations.

Examples:

We need to compare the like-for-like sales figures to see the real impact of the new marketing strategy.
The study focused on a like-for-like analysis of the two different approaches.
It's important to make a like-for-like comparison when evaluating the performance of different products.

Show examples from the web [+]

wishes the trade chapter to be based on like-for-like treatment, solidarity, dialogue and respect for the specific characteristics of Mexico and of the EU;
Temporary replacement of damaged or lost mobility equipment, although not necessarily on a like-for-like basis.
E. whereas at constant prices on a like-for-like basis, under the 2004 PDB for EU-15, that reduction is even more drastic, i.e. 12.8%,
whereas at constant prices on a like-for-like basis, under the 2004 PDB for EU-15, that reduction is even more drastic, i.e. 12.8%,
On a 2008 like-for-like basis a balance sheet reduced to EUR 239,4 billion corresponds to EUR 206 billion, which is a reduction of 51 %.
a list of spare parts, including a sufficiently detailed technical description of each part to allow like-for-like replacement with the same guarantees;
(d) wishes the trade chapter to be based on like-for-like treatment, solidarity, dialogue and respect for the specific characteristics of Mexico and the EU;
wishes the trade chapter to be based on like-for-like treatment, solidarity, dialogue and respect for the specific characteristics of Mexico and of the EU;
shall require that information and estimates for energy costs are provided to consumers on demand in a timely manner and in an easily understandable format enabling consumers to compare deals on a like-for-like basis.
whereas at constant prices on a like-for-like basis, under the 2004 PDB for EU-15, that reduction is even more drastic, i.e. 12.8 %,
That compares favourably with the average bill for Member States calculated on a like-for-like basis of 13.1% of budget.
Temporary replacement of damaged or lost mobility equipment, albeit not necessarily on a like-for-like basis.

This phrase is not a standard expression in English. The correct version is "apple-to-apple comparison," which is less common than "like-for-like."

"apple-to-apple"

If you want to use a similar comparison phrase, opt for "apple-to-apple comparison" instead of just "apple-to-apple."

Show examples from the web [+]

It's like comparing apples to apple pie.
It's no fun a couple Bellinis and a round of apples to apples can't solve.
It could rupture whether I'm out doing what I love or I'm at home playing apples to apples with my parents.
That's the first time we'll be comparing apples to apples, not only within a country, but between countries.
It could rupture whether I'm out doing what I love or I'm at home playing apples to apples with my parents.
You were with one person twice, so, in effect... apples to apples... I think we're even.
Compare apples to apples. Who's better?
Hold on! We'd like to play apples to apples with Thor!
Don't try to apple polish apple...
I'll send you an apple of the apple to the apple, by the apple, both.
We have to embrace the notion that for apple to win apple has to do a really good job.
Then you'll use the apples to bake an apple pie. That's it.
milk processed to make butter or cheese, apples processed to make apple must or cider) but only in the framework of processing activities which are separable from the main agricultural activity (on the basis of accounting documents, cf. 1.26).

Alternatives:

apple-to-apple comparison
apple-to-apple analysis
apple-to-apple evaluation
apple-to-apple comparison method
apple-to-apple comparison approach

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like-for-like vs apple-to-apple

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