identical

What does “identical” mean?

adjective.similar in every detail; exactly alike.

SAT Usage

this term often appears in passages discussing comparisons in scientific studies, social issues, or artistic works. It emphasizes a complete lack of variation or difference, suggesting that two or more items are indistinguishable, which can be more definitive than words like "similar" that may allow for some degree of variation.

Common Confusions

Identical implies a complete lack of variation or difference, while similar usually suggests some degree of likeness that allows for minor distinctions between the items being compared.

Example Sentences

• The twins wore identical outfits to confuse their teachers.

• The twins had identical tastes in fashion, often wearing matching outfits to school.