What is same? Pronunciation and usage in English

same means . Learn how to pronounce and use same through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of same

sameadjective

/seɪm/
Definition & pronunciation of same

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "same" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and correct pronunciation is: /seɪm/ (saym)

Let's break it down further:

  • "se" – Pronounce this like the "say" in "saying". Short and crisp.
  • "a" – Pronounce this like the "a" in "father" or "cat". A short, open vowel sound.
  • "m" – Pronounce this like the "m" in "mom" or "man".

Important Notes & Common Mistakes:

  • Don’t say “sam”: This is a very common mistake. The "a" sound is crucial.
  • The "e" is silent: Don’t produce a long "a" sound (like in "late"). The “e” acts as a schwa sound (a very weak, unstressed vowel sound – it’s almost like a short “uh”).

Resources to help you hear it:

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/same/ - This website lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word.
  • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce same" – you’ll find many helpful videos.

To summarize: Say it like "saym."

Would you like me to:

  • Record an example pronunciation?
  • Give you some similar words to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word same in English

Let's break down how to use the word "same" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with a few different roles. Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As an Adjective (Comparing Things)

This is the most common usage. "Same" means identical or alike.

  • Example: “This apple is same as the one I bought yesterday.” (Meaning: identical)
  • Example: “Are these shoes the same color?” (Meaning: identical in color)
  • Example: “He wants the same thing I want.” (Meaning: identical desire)

2. As a Pronoun (Referring Back to Something)

"Same" can replace a previously mentioned noun or idea. It's often used in more formal writing or speech. It’s less common in everyday casual conversation.

  • Example: "I asked her if she wanted the same dress." (Referring back to "dress")
  • Example: "The company offered the same benefits as its competitors." (Referring back to "benefits")
  • Example: “The problem is the same as before.” (Referring back to “problem”)

3. With Numbers – "The Same" (Showing Equal Value)

When used with numbers, “the same” indicates equal value or the same quantity.

  • Example: “It costs the same as last week.” (Meaning: equal price)
  • Example: “I need the same amount of time to finish the project.” (Meaning: equal duration)
  • Example: “The two tickets are the same price.” (Meaning: equal price)

4. In Phrases – Important Ones to Know

  • Same old: Used to describe something familiar and unchanging, often in a slightly negative way. “It’s always the same old story.”
  • Same as: Expressing similarity. “This tastes same as the last one.”
  • Same time tomorrow: Referring to a scheduled event. “Let’s meet same time tomorrow.”

Important Notes & Common Mistakes:

  • “Same” vs. “Similar”: These words are related but have different meanings. “Same” means identical. “Similar” means alike but not necessarily identical.

    • Example: "The houses are similar in style, but they aren't the same."

  • Don't Overuse It: "Same" can sound a bit repetitive if you use it too frequently. Vary your language with synonyms like “identical,” “equal,” “alike,” "the same," or rephrase the sentence.

  • Formal vs. Informal: "Same" is more common in formal writing and speech than in casual conversation. Most native speakers would simply say “the same” in most informal situations.

Let's Practice!

Can you create a sentence using “same” in one of the ways described above? I'll check your sentence and provide feedback. 👍

Synonyms for the word same

Idioms of the word same

same old, same old
(informal)used to say that a situation has not changed at all
  • ‘How's it going?’ ‘Oh, same old, same old.’
the same old story, stuff, nonsense, etc.
(informal)used to say that a situation or the excuses, products or entertainment being offered have not improved at all
  • It's the same old story  —budget cuts and government neglect.
  • The band's new album includes the same old stuff they've been playing forever.

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