adjective
like-for-like
lyke-fuh-LYKE
Like-for-like (adjective) means comparing two things on exactly the same basis, so that the comparison is fair. Example: “On a like-for-like basis, sales rose four per cent.”
adjective
1
Comparing two things on exactly the same basis, so that the comparison is fair.
"On a like-for-like basis, sales rose four per cent."
"We need a like-for-like quote before we choose a builder."
2
In retail and business reporting, describing figures that exclude new or closed outlets so that only the performance of the same stores in both periods is counted.
"Like-for-like sales fell, even though total revenue grew after the chain opened twelve new branches."
3
Replacing something with an item of the same type and standard.
"The insurer offered a like-for-like replacement for the damaged roof tiles."
How to use like-for-like
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishComparing two things fairly, using exactly the same measure for each.
When to use it
Common in British business journalism and in insurance and construction; "same-store" is preferred in the US.
Memory tip
Also used as an adverb: "Like for like, the cheaper model performs just as well."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
like-for-like sales
on a like-for-like basis
like-for-like comparison
like-for-like replacement
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On a _____ basis, sales rose four per cent.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for like-for-like
See all rhymes for like-for-like →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between like-for-like sales and total sales?
Total sales count everything a business took in, including money from shops or products it did not have last year. Like-for-like sales strip out those additions and closures, so they show whether the existing business is genuinely growing rather than just getting bigger.
Is like-for-like hyphenated?
It is normally hyphenated when it comes before a noun, as in "like-for-like growth". Written after the verb, or in the phrase "on a like-for-like basis", the hyphens are often kept as well; both styles are accepted.
What is the American equivalent of like-for-like?
American retail reporting usually says "same-store sales" or "comparable-store sales" where British reporting says "like-for-like sales". The calculation behind them is the same.
What is the meaning of like-for-like?
"like-for-like" (adjective) means comparing two things on exactly the same basis, so that the comparison is fair.
