resemblance
B2Neutral
Definition
Meaning
The state of being similar or alike in appearance or nature.
A similarity in form, appearance, or character, often implying a visual or superficial likeness that may not extend to deeper qualities.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often used with prepositions 'to' or 'between'. Implies a comparative likeness, and can range from slight to striking. It may emphasize outward or visible similarities.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage.
Connotations
Similar connotations in both dialects, typically neutral.
Frequency
Comparable frequency in both British and American English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
resemblance to [noun phrase]resemblance between [noun phrase] and [noun phrase]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “family resemblance”
- “bear a resemblance”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
The new logo bears a close resemblance to the industry leader's, which may cause confusion.
Academic
The paper explores the structural resemblance between ancient and modern legal systems.
Everyday
There's a clear resemblance between my cousin and her grandfather.
Technical
In genetics, the phenotypic resemblance between offspring and parents is studied for heritability.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I see a resemblance between the two cats.
- There is a noticeable resemblance between the two houses in the neighbourhood.
- The resemblance of the copy to the original artwork is almost perfect.
- Anthropologists have documented a striking resemblance in the ritual practices of geographically isolated tribes.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'semble' from French meaning 'similar', so resemblance is about re-sembling or being similar again.
Conceptual Metaphor
SIMILARITY IS A VISUAL ECHO
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid confusing 'resemblance' with 'reassembly' which means putting together again.
- In Russian, 'сходство' is the direct translation, but note that 'resemblance' often emphasizes visual similarity more strongly.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'resemblance with' instead of the correct 'resemblance to'
- Misspelling as 'resemblance' or 'resemblance'
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'resemblance'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it can be used for any type of similarity, but it often implies a visual or outward likeness.
The preposition 'to' is most common, as in 'resemblance to someone'. Also 'between' for two things, as in 'resemblance between A and B'.
Yes, 'resemblance' is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, including academic and business writing.
'Resemblance' often suggests a more specific or visual similarity, while 'similarity' can be more general and abstract, applicable to various attributes.
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