Common Mistakes with ‘similarly’ in Academic Writing

Many English learners use similarly to show that two ideas are alike, but they often place it incorrectly or use it where a different linking word would be clearer. In academic writing, similarly is a useful transition word, but it must be used with care. This guide explains the most frequent errors, shows you how to fix them, and gives you natural examples for essays, reports, and formal emails.

Quick Answer

Use similarly only when you are comparing two separate things that share a clear, parallel feature. Place it at the start of a sentence or after the subject. Do not use similarly to add another point about the same subject—use also or in addition instead. In formal writing, similarly is appropriate; in casual conversation, likewise or same here often sounds more natural.

What Does ‘similarly’ Mean?

Similarly is an adverb that means “in a similar way” or “likewise.” It connects two ideas that are parallel in structure or meaning. For example, if you say “Cats are independent. Similarly, tigers prefer solitude,” you are comparing two animals that share a trait. The word signals that the second idea mirrors the first in some important way.

Common Mistake 1: Using ‘similarly’ to Add a Point About the Same Subject

This is the most frequent error. Learners often write something like:

Incorrect: “The experiment showed a high success rate. Similarly, the results were statistically significant.”

Here, both sentences describe the same experiment. Similarly suggests you are comparing two different experiments or two different subjects. Instead, use also or in addition:

Correct: “The experiment showed a high success rate. Also, the results were statistically significant.”

Why This Happens

Learners often treat similarly as a synonym for also. While they can sometimes overlap, similarly requires a comparison between two distinct items. Also simply adds information.

Common Mistake 2: Placing ‘similarly’ in the Wrong Position

In academic writing, similarly usually appears at the beginning of a sentence or right after the subject. Placing it at the end can sound awkward or unclear.

Awkward: “The first group improved their scores. The second group improved their scores similarly.”

Better: “The first group improved their scores. Similarly, the second group improved their scores.”

Or: “The first group improved their scores. The second group similarly improved their scores.”

Common Mistake 3: Using ‘similarly’ in Casual Conversation

In everyday speech, similarly can sound too formal. If you are chatting with a friend or writing a casual email, consider likewise or same here.

Too formal: “I enjoyed the movie. Similarly, my brother liked it.”

More natural: “I enjoyed the movie. Likewise, my brother liked it.” Or “I enjoyed the movie. Same here for my brother.”

Comparison Table: ‘similarly’ vs. Other Linking Words

Natural Examples of ‘similarly’ in Academic Writing

Here are examples that show correct usage in essays, reports, and formal emails:

• Essay: “Urban areas often have higher crime rates. Similarly, suburban regions near cities report increased theft.”
• Report: “The first experiment used a sample of 100 participants. Similarly, the second experiment included 100 volunteers.”
• Formal email: “Our team completed the project ahead of schedule. Similarly, the marketing department finished their campaign early.”
• Research paper: “In mammals, social bonding is linked to oxytocin. Similarly, in birds, bonding is associated with vasotocin.”

Better Alternatives to ‘similarly’

When you are unsure if similarly is the right choice, consider these alternatives based on context:

• If you are adding a point about the same topic: Use also, in addition, or furthermore. Example: “The policy reduced costs. Also, it improved efficiency.”
• If you are showing a parallel between two separate subjects: Use similarly or likewise. Example: “Solar energy is renewable. Similarly, wind energy is sustainable.”
• If you are writing a casual email or conversation: Use likewise or same here. Example: “I found the lecture helpful. Likewise, my classmates agreed.”

When to Use ‘similarly’

Use similarly when you want to highlight a clear, logical parallel between two different things. It works best in formal writing such as academic essays, research papers, and business reports. Avoid it when the connection is weak or when you are simply listing additional details about the same subject.

Mini Practice Section

Test your understanding. Choose the correct word or phrase for each sentence. Answers are below.

1. The first group showed improvement. ____, the second group showed improvement. (Similarly / Also)
2. I love hiking. ____, my sister enjoys mountain climbing. (Similarly / Same here)
3. The company increased sales. ____, it expanded its product line. (Similarly / In addition)
4. She speaks French fluently. ____, her brother speaks Spanish. (Similarly / Likewise)

Answers

1. Similarly – because you are comparing two separate groups.
2. Similarly – because you are comparing two different people who share a hobby. Same here would be too informal for most writing.
3. In addition – because you are adding a point about the same company.
4. Similarly or Likewise – both work here to show a parallel between two people’s language skills.

FAQ: Common Questions About ‘similarly’

1. Can I start a sentence with ‘similarly’?

Yes. Starting a sentence with similarly is common in academic writing. It signals that the new sentence is parallel to the previous one. Example: “The first method was effective. Similarly, the second method produced good results.”

2. Is ‘similarly’ formal or informal?

Similarly is generally formal. It is appropriate for essays, reports, and professional emails. In casual conversation, likewise or same here are more natural.

3. What is the difference between ‘similarly’ and ‘likewise’?

Both show similarity, but likewise can also mean “in the same way” or “I agree.” For example, “I enjoyed the talk.” “Likewise.” (meaning “I also enjoyed it”). Similarly is rarely used alone in this way. In writing, they are often interchangeable, but likewise is slightly less formal.

4. Can I use ‘similarly’ in a list?

It is better to avoid similarly in a list. Use also or in addition for listing points. For example: “The study had three strengths. First, it used a large sample. Also, it controlled for variables. In addition, it replicated previous findings.”

Final Tips for Using ‘similarly’ Correctly

To avoid mistakes, always ask yourself: “Am I comparing two different things?” If yes, similarly may be correct. If you are adding information about the same thing, choose also or in addition. Practice by reading academic articles and noticing how writers use similarly to connect parallel ideas. For more help with linking words, explore our Essay Starters and Transition Word Examples sections. If you have questions, visit our FAQ or contact us.