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Region: General | Usage example: We need an apples-to-apples comparison of the vendors.

Apples to apples

Meaning

A fair comparison between similar things.

Usage

Used when aligning criteria for evaluation.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Everyday produce metaphor about comparing like with like.

Popularized in business contexts in the late 20th century.

Related Idioms

Apples and oranges

Two things that are fundamentally different and not directly comparable.

Best of both worlds

Enjoying two desirable but usually incompatible things.

In the same boat

Sharing a similar situation with others.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.