the editors

Comparing pairing

Dear Geist,
Is it better English to write “compared to” or “compared with”?

Dear Daiyu,
The short answer is that usage guides prefer “compare to” when items or aspects are being compared mainly for similarities, and “compare with” when being considered for both similarities and differences. When differences are the focus, guides prefer “contrast.” For a longer answer, look up
is a transitive verb.
—The Editors

THE EDITORS