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 In 2024, Redman and Rep. Josh Tanner, R-Eagle, presented an identical version of the services bill, with the goal to make Idaho less attractive to immigrants. Carolyn Komatsoulis, Idaho Statesman, 27 June 2025 These products can be sold as different items but use the same app, so run generic searches such as ‘wireless doorbells’ and try to avoid those that look identical to others. Kat De Naoum, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 June 2025 The two saw identical results on the back nine, both making birdie on No. 11, 13 and 15. Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 22 June 2025 The two cases are not identical, as there is no dispute that Drogheda and Silkeborg are controlled by the same owner, whereas Textor has never had that much sway at Palace, but Trivela’s travails demonstrate that UEFA is getting increasingly strict with MCO groups. Matt Slater, New York Times, 22 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for identical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for identical
Adjective
  • During the second inning, Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Nick Castellanos lifted a sinking line drive into right field, conjuring Espada’s memories of a far more consequential fly ball hit to that same spot.
    Chandler Rome, New York Times, 28 June 2025
  • That same year, he and his studio were sued for allegedly operating a hostile work environment.
    Gary Baum, HollywoodReporter, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Last year saw three similar incursions, according to The Associated Press.
    Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 6 July 2025
  • Using too much detergent can also have a similar result, leaving behind a residue that causes stiff fibers and reduced absorbency.
    Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 6 July 2025
Adjective
  • Must-read: The FT has a lengthy feature on how climate change is causing a systemic crisis in the property insurance business on a scale comparable to the 2008 financial crisis.
    Diane Brady, Fortune, 26 June 2025
  • In fact, this valuation is roughly comparable to that of its competitor SoFi, which was profitable last year and has demonstrated a quicker customer growth rate.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
Adjective
  • Lawsuits challenging Trump administration cuts in grant funding by other agencies, such as the Department Health and Human Services, have made analogous arguments.
    Noah Feldman, Twin Cities, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Mycelium is analogous to the roots of a plant (although mushrooms are fungi, not plants).
    Skye Chilton, Rolling Stone, 16 June 2025
Adjective
  • Morgan Wallen American Heart arrives with 61,000 equivalent units shifted.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 5 July 2025
  • The difference in distance is equivalent to 3.277 percent, which makes the sun appear 6.55 percent dimmer now than in January; A change of only one part in 30.
    Joe Rao, Space.com, 3 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Identical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/identical. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

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