What does "same" mean?

1. (similar in every way) exactly like another thing in shape, size, or quality. 2. (the identical thing) the thing that was just mentioned. 3. (in the same way) in a way that is not different. 4. (I agree) you say this to show you feel the same way as someone else. 5. (it or them) a formal way to say 'it' or 'them' when talking about something already mentioned.

How do you use "same"?

often appears in phrases like 'for the same' or 'of the same'

same

det. · pron. · adv. · interj.

US //ˈseɪm// UK //sˈeɪm// same

1 similar in every way (det.)
A1 Beginner

exactly like another thing in shape, size, or quality.

indistinguishable in kind, quality, or amount; having a close resemblance.

Example

The two sisters were wearing the same blue dress at the party.

Example

Although they were manufactured in different years, the two components were built to the same exacting specifications.
- alike
- matching
- distinct
- diverse
2 the identical thing (pron.)
A2 Elementary

the thing that was just mentioned.

the identical object, fact, or event previously described.

Example

I'll have the same, please.

Example

He ordered a black coffee, and his colleague requested the same, noting that they both needed the caffeine for the long drive ahead.
- ditto
- something else

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3 in the same way (adv.)
B1 Intermediate

in a way that is not different.

in an identical manner or to an equal degree.

Example

You should treat all your employees the same.

Example

The law requires that all citizens be treated the same, regardless of their social standing or economic background.
- equally
- similarly
- differently
4 I agree (interj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Informal Slang

you say this to show you feel the same way as someone else.

used to express agreement with a previous statement or to indicate that the speaker is in a similar situation.

Example

"I'm so tired of this cold weather." "Same."

Example

When the lead singer posted about his frustration with the tour schedule, thousands of fans simply replied with "same" to show their solidarity.
- agreed
- me too
5 it or them (pron.)
C1 Advanced Formal Technical Law

a formal way to say 'it' or 'them' when talking about something already mentioned.

used to refer back to a previously mentioned noun phrase to avoid repetition; common in legal or highly formal contexts.

Example

Please sign the document and return the same to our office.

Example

The tenant shall maintain the garden and ensure the same is kept free of weeds throughout the duration of the lease.

Usage

often appears in phrases like 'for the same' or 'of the same'

Teacher's tip

This usage is rare in speech and mostly found in contracts or old-fashioned business letters.
- the aforementioned