Compared to vs. Compared with

Attribute	Compared to	Compared with
Definition	Used to show similarities or differences between two things	Used to show the relationship between two things
Usage	Used when highlighting differences or similarities	Used when comparing two things in terms of their relationship
Focus	Focuses on the characteristics of one thing in relation to another	Focuses on the relationship or connection between two things
Direction	Indicates the direction of the comparison	Indicates the relationship between the two things being compared

Definition

When it comes to comparing two things, the choice between "compared to" and "compared with" can often be confusing. Both phrases are used to draw similarities or differences between two entities, but they are not always interchangeable. Understanding the nuances of each phrase can help you use them correctly in your writing.

Compared to

The phrase "compared to" is used to liken one thing to another, highlighting similarities or differences in a more general sense. It is often used when the two things being compared are not of the same category or type. For example, you might say, "The sun is like a giant ball of fire compared to a small candle." In this case, the sun and the candle are being compared in terms of their brightness, even though they are not the same object.

Another example of using "compared to" would be, "Her smile is as bright as the sun compared to the gloomy weather outside." Here, the brightness of the smile is being likened to the brightness of the sun, even though they are not directly related in terms of physical attributes.

Overall, "compared to" is used when drawing similarities or differences between two things that are not necessarily in the same category or type. It is a more general comparison that focuses on the overall characteristics or qualities of the entities being compared.

Compared with

In contrast, the phrase "compared with" is used to highlight differences or similarities in a more specific or detailed manner. It is often used when the two things being compared are of the same category or type, allowing for a more direct comparison of their attributes. For example, you might say, "His performance this year was outstanding compared with his performance last year." In this case, the focus is on comparing the specific performances of the individual in two different time periods.

Another example of using "compared with" would be, "The new model is more energy-efficient compared with the older version." Here, the focus is on comparing the specific attribute of energy efficiency between the two models, highlighting a specific difference between them.

Overall, "compared with" is used when drawing detailed or specific comparisons between two things that are of the same category or type. It allows for a more focused comparison of specific attributes or qualities of the entities being compared.

Usage

When deciding whether to use "compared to" or "compared with" in your writing, it is important to consider the nature of the comparison you are making. If you are drawing a general similarity or difference between two entities that are not necessarily in the same category, "compared to" would be the appropriate choice. On the other hand, if you are making a specific or detailed comparison between two entities that are of the same category, "compared with" would be more suitable.

It is also worth noting that "compared to" is more commonly used in everyday language and literature, while "compared with" is often preferred in academic or technical writing where a more precise comparison is required. Understanding the context in which you are writing can help you determine which phrase to use for your comparison.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between "compared to" and "compared with" depends on the nature of the comparison you are making and the context in which you are writing. "Compared to" is used for general comparisons between entities that are not necessarily in the same category, while "compared with" is used for specific comparisons between entities that are of the same category. By understanding the differences between these two phrases, you can use them effectively in your writing to convey your comparisons accurately and clearly.