The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

alike

IPA:

Dictionary definition of alike

To indicate similarity or resemblance between two or more things or individuals.
"The twins looked so alike that it was hard to tell them apart."

Detailed meaning of alike

It suggests that the entities being compared share common characteristics, traits, or qualities. When used in a sentence, "alike" emphasizes the similarities between the subjects or objects being described. It conveys the notion that they are alike in appearance, behavior, nature, or function. The adverb "alike" can be applied to a wide range of scenarios, from comparing two identical twins to highlighting the resemblance between two artworks. It implies a parallelism or uniformity, suggesting that the entities being discussed possess comparable attributes. "Alike" serves as a useful tool in emphasizing the shared qualities or characteristics of different elements, enabling clearer communication and facilitating comparisons in various contexts.

Example sentences containing alike

1. The twins looked so alike that even their friends had trouble telling them apart.
2. The two paintings, though different in style, were strikingly alike in color.
3. Their interests and hobbies are surprisingly alike.
4. The siblings share an uncanny ability to think alike.
5. The two laptops perform alike in terms of speed and efficiency.
6. Despite their age gap, their personalities are remarkably alike.

History and etymology of alike

The adverb 'alike' derives its etymology from the Old English word 'gelīc,' which means 'similar' or 'equal.' In Old English, 'gelīc' was used to describe things that were of the same kind or resembled each other in some way. The word evolved over time, with the addition of the prefix 'a-' meaning 'in the same manner' or 'to the same degree.' This transformation gave us 'alike,' which has been in use since the Middle English period to indicate the similarity or resemblance between two or more things or individuals. Thus, the etymology of 'alike' reflects its historical roots in describing likeness and equality.

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Further usage examples of alike

1. The two cars handled the rough terrain alike.
2. These books, though written by different authors, are eerily alike in plot.
3. The two dishes taste almost alike due to the secret ingredient.
4. The students, though from diverse backgrounds, learn alike.
5. The antique chairs, though from different eras, look very alike.
6. The competitors, though fierce rivals, dress alike in team colors.
7. Their fashion sense is similar; they often dress alike unintentionally.
8. The fruits may vary, but their nutritional benefits are alike.
9. Despite different manufacturers, the phones function alike.
10. The athletes perform similarly; their dedication is alike.
11. The two theories, though proposed independently, are oddly alike.
12. The two cities, though continents apart, feel strangely alike.
13. The siblings, though distant in age, act alike in many ways.
14. The recipes, though from different cuisines, taste strangely alike.
15. The two dresses were designed alike, but with different colors.
16. The siblings shared not only a physical resemblance but also spoke alike.
17. The mother and daughter had similar tastes and dressed alike on special occasions.
18. The two buildings were architecturally alike, showcasing a modern design.
19. The actors delivered their lines alike, displaying impeccable timing and emotion.
20. The two cars performed alike on the racetrack, demonstrating their equal capabilities.
21. The siblings' handwriting looked so alike that even their parents struggled to differentiate them.
22. The software allows users to customize their profiles to look alike, creating a unified appearance.
23. The students solved the math problem alike, arriving at the same answer simultaneously.
24. The two friends laughed alike, with infectious joy that filled the room.
25. The flowers bloomed alike, showcasing vibrant colors and delicate petals.