adjective
comparable
KAHM-puh-ruh-bul/ˈkɑːmpərəbl/
Similar enough in relevant qualities to be fairly compared.
The two bicycles have comparable designs, with only a few small differences.
Etymology
“Together” and “equal” underlie the verb meaning “liken,” while the ending adds capability. Something comparable can be likened to something else because they share enough relevant qualities.
In context
more useful if I can compare one company to another. That's why we all tend to follow the same or very similar sets of rules to make the financial information comparable.
More examples
- Her salary is comparable to those of other nurses in the area.
- Both studies produce comparable results despite using different methods.
- We need homes of comparable size to make a fair price comparison.
Forms
comparable · more comparable · most comparable
comparably adverb — In a similar way or degree.
comparability noun — Similarity that allows a fair comparison.
Similar words
- similar
- Shares some qualities, without necessarily allowing a fair comparison.
- equivalent
- Matches another in value or function, rather than merely resembling it.