Definition of identicalnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word identical different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of identical are equal, equivalent, same, selfsame, and very. While all these words mean "not different or not differing from one another," identical may imply selfsameness or suggest absolute agreement in all details.

identical results

In what contexts can equal take the place of identical?

In some situations, the words equal and identical are roughly equivalent. However, equal implies being identical in value, magnitude, or some specified quality.

equal shares in the business

When is equivalent a more appropriate choice than identical?

The synonyms equivalent and identical are sometimes interchangeable, but equivalent implies amounting to the same thing in worth or significance.

two houses equivalent in market value

How are the words same and selfsame related as synonyms of identical?

Same may imply and selfsame always implies that the things under consideration are one thing and not two or more things.

took the same route
derived from the selfsame source

How does the word very relate to other synonyms for identical?

Very, like selfsame, may imply identity, or, like same may imply likeness in kind.

the very point I was trying to make

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of identical Their matching scale and symmetrical placement bring structure to the wall without requiring identical artwork. Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2026 These heavy bobbers feature a concave head that looks identical to a popper. Joe Cermele, Outdoor Life, 23 July 2026 Two men with nearly identical test results may be offered — or choose — different paths based on their health and priorities. Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 23 July 2026 This $13 option looks nearly identical to Moore’s and my bag, but for almost half the price. Rylee Johnston, PEOPLE, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for identical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for identical
Adjective
  • Now protesters are using that same platform to mock his administration, ridicule pro-government television news coverage, transform confrontation with police into viral content and seize control of the online narrative.
    ABC News, ABC News, 25 July 2026
  • That same year, Moonshot secured nearly $300 million in its first two funding rounds, according to a 2024 interview with Chinese media.
    John Liu, CNN Money, 24 July 2026
Adjective
  • Lawsuit attacks diversity efforts The lawsuit comes amid a broader crackdown on diversity initiatives nationwide as conservatives argue similar programs treat white people unfairly.
    Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 23 July 2026
  • Across the pond, All-Star Games don’t exist, and there really aren’t any similar types of contests.
    Kamran Nia July 23, Charlotte Observer, 23 July 2026
Adjective
  • Taking 4 million barrels off the market would be roughly comparable to the amount that China stopped importing during the war – an action oil analysts say has helped keep energy prices relatively low despite the record-smashing oil supply shock.
    David Goldman, CNN Money, 22 July 2026
  • The system is still expanding, but new units are contributing more of the overall growth as comparable sales moderate.
    Jim Osman, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026
Adjective
  • The companies describe the technology as analogous to Global Entry for international travelers, in that pre-verified goods move through compliance checks faster because customs isn’t starting a full risk review every time.
    Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 24 July 2026
  • Any autonomous physical unit must demonstrate something at least analogous to an understanding of the laws of the physical world.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 13 July 2026
Adjective
  • The field will unlock more than 600 million standard cubic feet of natural gas and associated gas liquids per day, according to ADNOC, equivalent to nearly 10% of the UAE’s current daily gas consumption.
    Emma Graham, CNBC, 21 July 2026
  • The mathematics system allows the system to recognize mathematically equivalent work.
    Ray Ravaglia, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Identical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/identical. Accessed 27 Jul. 2026.

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