Proverb / Kotowaza
大同小異
Although there are minor differences, things are essentially the same.
Large similarities, small differences
Quick Answer
Although there are minor differences, things are essentially the same.
- Literal Image
- Large similarities, small differences
- Closest Equivalent
- Much of a muchness
- How to Use It
- This expression is used when comparing opinions, products, or plans that lack significant distinction. It is employed when choosing between options is difficult because they are nearly identical.
Meaning
Describes a situation where two or more things have slight variations in detail or appearance but are functionally or fundamentally identical. It is used when the differences between options are so negligible that they do not change the overall conclusion or outcome.
Literal Image
Large similarities, small differences
Equivalent Proverbs
Much of a muchness
Expresses that there is little to choose between things.
How to Use It
This expression is used when comparing opinions, products, or plans that lack significant distinction. It is employed when choosing between options is difficult because they are nearly identical.
Examples
各社のスマートフォンは、デザインこそ違えど機能は大同小異だ。
Smartphones from various companies have different designs, but their functions are mostly the same.
彼らの意見は表現が違うだけで、中身は大同小異だ。
Their opinions just use different expressions; the content is essentially the same.
どちらの案も大同小異で、選ぶのが難しい。
Both plans are so similar that it's difficult to choose.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
While the individual kanji are simple, this four-character compound is an abstract idiomatic concept in adult-level speech and writing.
大同
だいどう / daidou
mostly the same; large similarity
小異
しょうい / shoui
minor difference; small disparity
Usage Profile
Usage note: Ensure you are using it to describe items that are truly similar in substance, rather than just visually similar.
Misread Risk
Do not use this to mean things are completely identical; it specifically acknowledges that small differences do exist.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
This expression originates from the 'Tian Xia' (天下篇) chapter of the Chinese classic Zhuangzi. It was derived from the idea of 'large similarities and small differences' to describe things that are nearly identical.
Index
Topics, Situations, and Tags
Topics
Situations
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Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.