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compare

/kəmˈpɛər/ · com·pare
verb
  1. To examine (two or more things) in order to note similarities and differences. She compared the two proposals before making a decision.
  2. To liken one thing to another; to say that they are similar in some respect. He compared his childhood home to a cozy cottage.
  3. To estimate the value, size, quality, or nature of something by reference to something else. The appraiser compared the painting to known works to determine its worth.
  4. To bring into a relationship of similarity or equivalence; to match. The teacher compared the student's answer with the model solution.
noun
  1. A statement or act of comparing; a comparison. The compare between the two cars highlighted the fuel‑efficiency advantage of the hybrid model.
Did you know? The phrase “compare and contrast” became a staple of school curricula in the early 20th century, encouraging students to develop critical thinking by examining both similarities and differences.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Aug 20, 2026