Translation guide
The English adverb 'similarly' is used to draw comparisons or indicate that something is done in a similar manner. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adverbs, phrases, and sentence patterns depending on the context and level of formality.
To describe an action or state that resembles another in method, style, or nature.
A standard and versatile adverb meaning 'in the same way' or 'likewise'. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
He thinks similarly.
This problem is similarly difficult to the last one.
A more colloquial alternative to 同様に, literally 'in the same way'. Common in everyday conversation.
I feel similarly.
Means 'in a similar manner', emphasizing resemblance rather than exact sameness. Slightly less common than 同様に.
He behaves similarly to his older brother.
A concise adverb often used in formal or written contexts to mean 'likewise' or 'similarly'. Can also be used as a conjunction.
Company A's performance improved. Similarly, Company B grew.
A formal, somewhat technical term meaning 'analogously' or 'in a similar fashion'. Rare in everyday speech.
This phenomenon can be explained similarly.
To introduce an additional statement that parallels a previous one, often used in discourse.
A common conjunction meaning 'also' or 'in addition'. Used to add a similar point in both speech and writing.
He is an excellent student. Similarly, he is good at sports.
Can also be used as a sentence-initial adverb to mean 'similarly' or 'likewise' when adding a parallel point.
Used as a conjunction in formal writing to mean 'similarly' or 'likewise'.
To draw a parallel between two situations, often using a pattern like 'similarly to...'.
同様に (どうように) is slightly more formal and often used in writing or formal speech. 同じように (おなじように) is more common in casual conversation. Both are interchangeable in most contexts, but 同様に can sound stiff in everyday chat.
English often uses 'similarly' as a sentence adverb to introduce a parallel point. In Japanese, using 同様に at the start of a sentence is acceptable but can feel formal. In casual speech, また or simply stating the next point without a connector is more natural.
Tokyo is expensive. Similarly, Osaka is not cheap either.
需要が増加した。同じく供給も拡大した。
Demand increased. Similarly, supply expanded.
Similarly to his older brother, the younger brother became a doctor.