similar
“similar” means “similar” in Spanish (describing likeness).
similar, like
Also: resembling, akin
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Mi teléfono es muy similar al tuyo, pero el color es diferente.
A1My phone is very similar to yours, but the color is different.
Las ideas de los dos candidatos son similares en muchos puntos.
A2The two candidates' ideas are similar in many respects.
El sabor de esta fruta es similar a una manzana, aunque un poco más dulce.
B1The flavor of this fruit is similar to an apple, although a little sweeter.
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Quick Quiz: similar
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'similar' to describe two feminine nouns?
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📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin word *similis*, meaning 'like' or 'resembling.' It entered Spanish with very little change, keeping its core meaning intact for centuries.
First recorded: 15th century (documented in early modern Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'similar' change its ending for masculine and feminine nouns?
No, 'similar' is one of the adjectives that stays the same regardless of gender. You use 'similar' for both masculine and feminine words. It only changes when you make it plural (similares).
Is 'similar' used more often than 'parecido'?
Both are very common, but 'similar' is often preferred in slightly more formal or technical contexts, whereas 'parecido' (meaning 'looking like' or 'alike') is highly frequent in everyday conversation.