10 Synonyms for “Apples to Apples”

When discussing or comparing similar items or situations, the phrase “apples to apples” is often used to emphasize fairness and precision. However, using the same phrase repeatedly can become boring or seem unprofessional in certain settings.

This article provides ten alternative phrases that convey the same meaning, helping you to communicate more effectively and professionally. Each alternative is explained in detail to show how and when it’s best used, providing clear examples for better understanding.

Is It Professional to Say “Apples to Apples”?

Using the phrase “apples to apples” can be professional, depending on the context. It is a useful expression in situations where you need to explain or ensure that things being compared are truly similar. It is commonly used in business environments when comparing products, prices, or job candidates.

Here is an example:

When selecting a vendor, it's crucial that we compare apples to apples to understand which offers the best value for the same level of service.

Pros:

• Clear communication of the need for fair comparison
• Helps avoid confusion over differing parameters or criteria
• Easily understood in many professional environments

Cons:

• Can be viewed as informal in certain professional settings
• May not be understood in international or multicultural contexts
• Potentially overused, becoming a cliché

One might want to consider using an alternative phrase if the audience values highly formal language or if the setting is more formal and traditional. Additionally, synonyms may help to refresh communication and avoid clichés.

10 Other Ways to Say “Apples to Apples”

When you need synonyms for the phrase “apples to apples,” here are ten popular alternatives to consider:

1. Equal comparison
2. Like for like
3. Matching equivalently
4. Parallel comparison
5. Comparable terms
6. On the same basis
7. Equivalent terms
8. Direct comparison
9. One-to-one correspondence
10. Matching basis

1. Equal comparison

This alternative emphasizes fairness in evaluation and is synonymous with making sure things compared are exactly the same. It shares a similar precision-focused intent as “apples to apples.”

When seeking a professional tone, especially in documents or presentations, “equal comparison” is an ideal choice because it emphasizes equitability without using informal expressions.

Here are two samples:

Ensure we are making an equal comparison between the two software packages.

The manager insisted that we use an equal comparison for the job candidates.

2. Like for like

An expression commonly used in the UK, “like for like” mirrors “apples to apples” by focusing on the exactness of the comparison. It is less formal but still understood in business contexts.

This phrase is more suited when the audience is familiar with casual but professional UK English. It adds a degree of relatability in regions where this colloquialism is commonplace.

Here are two examples:

To achieve accurate results, we conducted a like for like analysis.

For our quarterly review, let's perform a like for like comparison of the sales figures.

3. Matching equivalently

When precise and formal language is necessary, “matching equivalently” serves as a suitable synonym for “apples to apples.” It ensures clarity in communication by indicating an exact equivalence.

This alternative is preferable in highly technical or academic settings, where detailed exactness and formality are required.

Examples:

For a fair assessment, ensure you are matching equivalently across all categories.

We recommend analyzing the data by matching equivalently to maintain accuracy.

4. Parallel comparison

“Parallel comparison” directly aligns with “apples to apples” by suggesting two items or situations run side-by-side with similar metrics. It is synonymous in aiming for unbiased comparisons.

This synonym is particularly useful in scientific or formal evaluations where precision is paramount.

Here are two samples:

In our experiment, we made a parallel comparison to ensure consistent conditions.

During the audit, we used a parallel comparison technique to ensure clarity.

5. Comparable terms

“Comparable terms” suggests a balanced examination and is a direct synonym for “apples to apples.” This phrase emphasizes similarity in terms and conditions.

It is a solid option for business negotiations or contract discussions where clarity and equivalence are crucial and a polite tone is necessary.

Here are examples:

To argue for a bonus, present your achievements in comparable terms with your peers.

We recommend laying out the deals in comparable terms to facilitate an easier decision.

6. On the same basis

“On the same basis” reflects an intent to maintain equality throughout and is similar to “apples to apples.” It highlights uniform standards being applied.

This is often better suited for financial or statistical contexts where conveying information on a consistent, professional footing matters.

Examples:

Assess each department's performance on the same basis for accurate results.

All applicants were judged on the same basis to ensure fairness.

7. Equivalent terms

“Equivalent terms” is used to signify that different elements are being considered in a uniformly equal manner. It is precisely synonymous with “apples to apples.”

This phrase is best in legal or highly detailed documentation where specific terms are being compared and exact equality is critical.

Examples:

The two contracts were analyzed on equivalent terms.

We evaluated the proposals on equivalent terms to ensure a fair selection process.

8. Direct comparison

“Direct comparison” emphasizes a straightforward and unambiguous assessment, aligned closely with “apples to apples.”

This alternative is a good fit in contexts where being direct and formal is valued over implied meanings.

Examples:

For clarity, we conducted a direct comparison of the two models.

We used a direct comparison in our report to highlight the differences clearly.

9. One-to-one correspondence

With a focus on one-to-one alignment, “one-to-one correspondence” critically matches the original intent of an “apples to apples” comparison, ensuring each item or condition is mirrored exactly.

This expression fits well in mathematical or technical discussions where precise correlations are required.

Examples:

In statistical analysis, we assure one-to-one correspondence between the variables.

We ensured one-to-one correspondence in the control and experimental groups in our study.

10. Matching basis

“Matching basis” conveys the idea of setting the same foundation for comparisons, akin to an “apples to apples” scenario. It ensures that all factors involved are on an even footing.

This phrase is particularly effective in accounting or when discussing foundational criteria in any business setup.

Examples:

The budgets for each department were set on a matching basis.

Salary adjustments were made on a matching basis according to experience and qualifications.

Final Thoughts

Having a variety of phrases like “apples to apples” at your disposal allows for more precise and engaging communication. By understanding the subtle nuances and appropriate contexts of each alternative, you enhance your ability to convey your thoughts clearly and professionally.