Apples-to-Apples – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever tried to compare two things that were totally different? Maybe you wanted to choose between two job offers, but one included benefits and the other didn’t. That’s when you need an apples-to-apples comparison. This idiom helps you talk about fair and equal comparisons in everyday conversations.
What Does “Apples-to-Apples” Mean?
When you make an apples-to-apples comparison, you compare things that are similar or equal. You look at the same features or conditions so the comparison is fair. Think of it like comparing two red apples instead of comparing an apple to an orange. This idiom is not about actual fruit—it’s about making sure your comparison is fair and accurate.
When to Use It
You can use apples-to-apples in many everyday situations. At work, you might compare prices from different companies using the same criteria. When shopping, you compare products with the same features. At school, you compare test scores that use the same grading system. This phrase is neutral and works in both casual and professional settings.
Example Sentences
“Let’s make an apples-to-apples comparison of these phone plans before we decide.”
“You can’t compare those two cars—one is new and one is used. It’s not apples-to-apples.”
“To make this apples-to-apples, we need to look at the salary and benefits together.”
“The report shows an apples-to-apples comparison of sales from both years.”
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “This apartment is cheaper, so I think it’s the better deal.”
Jamie: “Wait, does it include utilities? Let’s make an apples-to-apples comparison first.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use this phrase when things are obviously different and you’re not trying to make them equal. Also, remember it’s always “apples-to-apples,” not “apple-to-apple.”
❌ Don’t say: “This is apples-to-apples” when you’re actually comparing very different things.
✅ Do say: “Let’s make this apples-to-apples by looking at the same time period for both companies.”
Practice Tip
Practice Tip
Next time you’re shopping or making a decision, practice saying “Let me compare these apples-to-apples.” It’s a professional way to show you want a fair comparison.
Final Note
Using apples-to-apples shows that you think carefully and want to be fair. Don’t worry about sounding too formal—this phrase is friendly and clear. Start using it when you compare prices, products, or options, and you’ll sound more confident in English!
