ENGLISH
REFERENCE

same, same, but different

idiom
Meaning

Almost the same, but with some differences.


Origin

disputed origin

Originates in Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, where locals use it (in English) to describe things that are very similiar yet not identical, such as substitute goods in markets.

Examples
SIMPLE

These two shirts are same, same, but different.

CONTEXTUAL

The new model of the phone is same, same, but different because it has a better camera.

COMPLEX

Although the two political systems appear identical to the casual observer, they are ultimately same, same, but different in their approach to individual rights.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    built different

    Able to do things which others cannot; extremely talented or unusual.

  2. 02

    couldn't be more different

    Two entities that have virtually nothing in common.

  3. 03

    different breed of cat

    Something entirely different; a whole other thing or matter.

  4. 04

    different drummer

    Someone or something that implies individuality, originality, or nonconformity.

  5. 05

    horse of a different color

    An unrelated or only incidentally related matter with distinctly different significance.

  6. 06

    march to the beat of a different drum

    To do things in one's own way regardless of societal norms and conventional expectations.

  7. 07

    sing a different tune

    To hold a different opinion or appreciation (about something); to possess a new, changed, or regenerated mindset, usually for the better.

  8. 08

    tiger of a different stripe

    Something entirely different; a whole other thing or matter.

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