Quick Answer: How to Use ‘similarly’

Use similarly to connect two comparable points. Place it at the start of a sentence followed by a comma, or insert it mid-sentence between commas. It works best in formal writing, academic essays, and professional emails. In casual conversation, words like also or likewise often sound more natural.

Examples:

• Formal: The first experiment showed a clear pattern. Similarly, the second trial confirmed the results.
• Informal: She loves hiking. Similarly, her brother enjoys mountain biking.

What ‘similarly’ Means and When to Use It

Similarly signals that what follows matches or parallels what came before. It is not the same as also (which adds information) or however (which shows contrast). Use it when you want to highlight a resemblance between two facts, examples, or arguments.

Formal vs. Informal Contexts

In academic papers, business reports, and formal emails, similarly is a strong choice because it creates clear logical links. In everyday speech or casual writing, it can sound stiff. For example:

• Formal email: Our sales increased in Q1. Similarly, customer satisfaction scores rose by 12%.
• Casual conversation: I like action movies. My friend does too. (Using similarly here would feel unnatural.)

Nuance: Not Just a Synonym for ‘also’

Many learners treat similarly as a direct replacement for also, but the nuance differs. Also simply adds information. Similarly emphasizes that the new information is comparable in kind or degree. Compare:

• He speaks French. He also speaks Spanish. (Just listing languages.)
• He speaks French fluently. Similarly, his Spanish is excellent. (Highlights that both skills are strong.)

Comparison Table: ‘similarly’ vs. Other Linking Words

Natural Examples of ‘similarly’ in Sentences

Here are realistic examples you can adapt for your own writing. Notice the placement of similarly and the punctuation.

Academic Writing

• Urban areas tend to have higher pollution levels. Similarly, industrial zones show increased particulate matter.
• The study found that sleep deprivation affects memory. Similarly, it impairs concentration.
• One species adapts to cold climates. Similarly, another species develops thick fur.

Professional Emails

• Our team met the quarterly targets. Similarly, the marketing department exceeded its goals.
• The client requested faster delivery. Similarly, they asked for better packaging.
• We improved our response time. Similarly, we reduced error rates.

Everyday Writing

• She enjoys reading novels. Similarly, her brother loves short stories.
• The first recipe was simple. Similarly, the second one uses basic ingredients.
• He prefers morning workouts. Similarly, his friend exercises before work.

Common Mistakes with ‘similarly’

Even advanced learners make these errors. Avoid them to keep your writing clear.

Mistake 1: Using ‘similarly’ to Show Contrast

Do not use similarly when you mean however or on the other hand.

• Wrong: The first method is fast. Similarly, the second method is slow.
• Correct: The first method is fast. However, the second method is slow.

Mistake 2: Forgetting the Comma

When similarly starts a sentence, always follow it with a comma. When it appears mid-sentence, surround it with commas.

• Wrong: Similarly the results were positive.
• Correct: Similarly, the results were positive.
• Wrong: The test similarly showed improvement. (This is acceptable only if similarly modifies the verb, but it changes the meaning.)
• Correct: The test, similarly, showed improvement. (Here it links back to a previous point.)

Mistake 3: Overusing ‘similarly’ in One Paragraph

Repeating similarly multiple times makes writing feel mechanical. Vary your linking words.

• Weak: Sales increased. Similarly, profits rose. Similarly, customer numbers grew.
• Better: Sales increased. Similarly, profits rose. In addition, customer numbers grew.

Mistake 4: Using ‘similarly’ with Unrelated Ideas

The two points must genuinely be comparable. If they are not parallel, the word confuses readers.

• Wrong: She studied hard. Similarly, the weather was sunny. (No logical connection.)
• Correct: She studied hard. Similarly, her roommate prepared for the exam.

Better Alternatives to ‘similarly’

Depending on your context, these alternatives can sound more natural or precise.

• Likewise – Slightly more formal, good for business writing.
• In the same way – More explanatory, useful for step-by-step comparisons.
• By the same token – Emphasizes logical consistency, common in arguments.
• Correspondingly – Very formal, used in academic or technical writing.
• Also – Simple and versatile for everyday use.

When to Use ‘similarly’ (and When to Skip It)

Use similarly when you want to:

• Connect two parallel arguments in an essay.
• Show that a second example follows the same pattern as the first.
• Emphasize that two situations are comparable in degree or kind.

Skip it when:

• The connection is obvious and a simple also works.
• You are writing a casual text or speaking informally.
• The two ideas are not truly parallel (use however or in contrast instead).

Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding

Complete each sentence with similarly or another appropriate word. Answers follow.

1. The first chapter introduces the main character. ____, the second chapter describes her family.
2. He enjoys playing guitar. ____, his sister plays the piano.
3. The company cut costs. ____, it laid off employees. (Is this correct?)
4. She prefers tea. ____, her husband drinks coffee. (Is similarly the best choice?)

Answers:

1. Similarly (or Likewise). Both chapters follow a parallel structure.
2. Similarly (or Also). Both enjoy music, so the comparison works.
3. Yes, this is correct if the layoffs were a result of cost-cutting. If they are separate actions, in addition might be clearer.
4. No. Tea and coffee are different drinks, so similarly is misleading. Use however or in contrast instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. Starting a sentence with similarly is common in formal writing. Always follow it with a comma. Example: Similarly, the second experiment confirmed the findings.

2. Is ‘similarly’ formal or informal?

Similarly is generally formal. It is ideal for academic papers, business reports, and professional emails. In casual conversation, also or likewise often fit better.

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

Both mean “in the same way,” but likewise is slightly more formal and can also be used as a response (e.g., “Likewise, I enjoyed meeting you”). Similarly is more common in written comparisons.

4. Can ‘similarly’ be used in the middle of a sentence?

Yes. Place it between commas to connect two parts of a sentence. Example: The first method, similarly, relies on observation. This usage is less common but grammatically correct.

Final Tips for Using ‘similarly’ in Your Writing

To write better sentences with similarly, remember these three rules:

• Always ensure the two ideas are genuinely comparable.
• Use commas correctly: after similarly at the start of a sentence, and around it in the middle.
• Do not overuse it. Mix in other linking words like likewise, also, or in addition to keep your writing varied.

For more help with academic vocabulary, explore our Writing Sentence Examples section. If you have questions about other linking words, visit our FAQ page or contact us.