How to Use ‘similarly’ in an Essay
The linking word similarly is used to show that two ideas, examples, or arguments share a common feature or pattern. In an essay, you use it to connect a point you have just made to a new point that supports or mirrors it. For example: “The first study found a strong link between exercise and mood. Similarly, the second study reported improved mental health in active participants.” This word helps your reader see that you are building a consistent argument, not jumping between unrelated ideas.
Quick Answer: When to Use ‘similarly’
Use similarly when you want to say: “This next idea works in the same way as the one before.” It is a formal linking word, best for academic essays, reports, and professional writing. It is less common in casual conversation, where people often say “same here” or “likewise.”
What Does ‘similarly’ Mean in an Essay?
At its core, similarly signals a comparison of similarity. It tells your reader that the following sentence or clause contains an idea that parallels the previous one. This is different from words like however (which shows contrast) or therefore (which shows cause and effect).
Think of it as a bridge: you have built one point, and now you are building another point that stands beside it, not against it. This makes your essay feel cohesive and logical.
Formal vs. Informal Tone
| Context | Word Choice | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Formal essay | similarly | “The data from 2020 showed a decline in sales. Similarly, the 2021 figures confirmed this downward trend.” |
| Informal conversation | same here / me too / likewise | “I love hiking.” “Same here.” |
| Professional email | similarly / in the same way | “Our team has adopted a new workflow. Similarly, your department may benefit from this approach.” |
Natural Examples of ‘similarly’ in Essays
Here are five natural examples that show how similarly works in different types of essays:
- Argumentative essay: “Renewable energy reduces carbon emissions. Similarly, it lowers long-term energy costs for households.”
- Compare and contrast essay: “The Roman Empire expanded through military conquest. Similarly, the Mongol Empire grew by absorbing neighboring territories.”
- Cause and effect essay: “Poor sleep quality affects concentration. Similarly, it weakens memory retention.”
- Descriptive essay: “The northern region experiences harsh winters. Similarly, the mountainous areas face extreme cold for most of the year.”
- Persuasive essay: “Education funding improves literacy rates. Similarly, it boosts economic productivity in the long run.”
Common Mistakes When Using ‘similarly’
Even advanced learners sometimes misuse similarly. Here are the most frequent errors and how to fix them:
Mistake 1: Using ‘similarly’ to introduce a contrast
Wrong: “The first experiment failed. Similarly, the second experiment succeeded.”
Why it is wrong: Failure and success are opposites, not similar. Use however or in contrast instead.
Correct: “The first experiment failed. However, the second experiment succeeded.”
Mistake 2: Placing ‘similarly’ at the end of a sentence
Wrong: “The results were consistent across all groups similarly.”
Why it is wrong: Similarly usually connects two separate ideas. It works best at the start of a sentence or clause.
Correct: “The results were consistent across all groups. Similarly, the control group showed the same pattern.”
Mistake 3: Overusing ‘similarly’ in one paragraph
Wrong: “The first point is valid. Similarly, the second point is valid. Similarly, the third point is valid.”
Why it is wrong: Repetition makes your writing sound mechanical. Use synonyms like likewise, in the same way, or correspondingly.
Correct: “The first point is valid. Similarly, the second point supports this view. In the same way, the third point reinforces the argument.”
Mistake 4: Using ‘similarly’ without a clear comparison
Wrong: “The economy is growing. Similarly, the weather is warm.”
Why it is wrong: There is no logical similarity between economic growth and weather. The reader cannot see the connection.
Correct: “The economy is growing. Similarly, consumer confidence is rising.”
Better Alternatives to ‘similarly’
Depending on your sentence, you might choose a different linking word. Here is a quick reference:
| Word | When to Use It | Example |
|---|---|---|
| likewise | Formal writing, often in academic or legal contexts | “The defendant denied the charges. Likewise, the witness refused to testify.” |
| in the same way | When you want to emphasize the method or process | “The first group was tested under controlled conditions. In the same way, the second group followed the same protocol.” |
| correspondingly | When two things change together or match | “As demand increased, correspondingly, the price rose.” |
| equally | When both ideas have the same importance or value | “Time management is crucial for students. Equally, it matters for working professionals.” |
| by the same token | When you are making a logical extension of an argument | “If we accept this premise, then by the same token, we must accept the conclusion.” |
When to Use ‘similarly’ in Different Writing Situations
In Academic Essays
Use similarly to connect evidence from different sources. For example: “Smith (2019) found that reading improves vocabulary. Similarly, Jones (2020) reported that daily reading expands word knowledge.” This shows that multiple studies agree, strengthening your argument.
In Emails
In professional emails, similarly can link two suggestions or observations. Example: “Our team has noticed a drop in engagement. Similarly, the marketing department has seen fewer clicks on recent campaigns.” This keeps the email concise and logical.
In Everyday Conversation
While similarly is rare in casual talk, you might hear it in formal discussions or presentations. In everyday speech, people prefer shorter phrases like “same here” or “me too.”
Mini Practice: Using ‘similarly’ Correctly
Test your understanding with these four questions. Write your answers, then check them below.
Question 1: Fill in the blank: “The first chapter introduces the main character. _______, the second chapter develops her backstory.”
Question 2: Is this sentence correct? “The company increased its profits. Similarly, the number of employees decreased.”
Question 3: Rewrite this sentence using similarly: “Both studies showed the same result. The first study used a small sample, and the second study used a large sample.”
Question 4: Which word is a better alternative to similarly in this sentence? “The temperature dropped. _______, the humidity fell.”
Answers
Answer 1: Similarly (or Likewise).
Answer 2: No. Profits increasing and employees decreasing are opposite trends. Use however or in contrast.
Answer 3: “The first study used a small sample. Similarly, the second study used a large sample.” (Note: This works because both studies showed the same result, even though the sample sizes differed. The similarity is in the outcome.)
Answer 4: Correspondingly (because both temperature and humidity changed in the same direction).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I start a sentence with ‘similarly’?
Yes. Starting a sentence with similarly is common and correct in formal writing. Example: “Similarly, the third experiment confirmed the hypothesis.”
2. Is ‘similarly’ formal or informal?
Similarly is formal. It is ideal for academic essays, reports, and professional documents. In casual conversation, use “same here” or “likewise.”
3. What is the difference between ‘similarly’ and ‘likewise’?
Both mean “in the same way,” but likewise is slightly more formal and often used in legal or very formal writing. In most essays, you can use them interchangeably.
4. Can I use ‘similarly’ in the middle of a sentence?
Yes, but it is less common. Example: “The first group, similarly, showed no improvement.” However, placing it at the start of a sentence or clause is usually clearer.
Final Tips for Using ‘similarly’ in Your Essay
To use similarly effectively, always ask yourself: “Does the next idea truly mirror the previous one?” If the answer is yes, similarly is a strong choice. If the ideas are different or opposite, choose another linking word.
For more guidance on linking words, explore our Essay Starters section. You can also check Transition Word Examples for other useful connectors. If you have questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us.
