What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
such
Example
I have never seen such a beautiful sunset before. [such: determiner]
Example
She has such a kind heart. [such: pronoun]
Example
I love listening to music genres such as jazz and blues. [such as: preposition]
similar
Example
The two paintings are similar in style and color. [similar: adjective]
Example
This dress is similar to the one I saw at the store yesterday. [similar: preposition]
Example
The two brothers have similar interests and hobbies. [similar: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Similar is more commonly used than such in everyday language. Similar is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while such is less common and is used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between such and similar?
Both such and similar can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, such is often used in more formal writing or speech to provide specific examples or details.
