Phrases for two methods that are different but both can solve the same task?












6















I want to describe a type of pairs , that method1 and method2 have different implementations/settings, but both can be used to solve the same task.



My questions are:




  1. Is there any terms/phrases or succinct ways to describe such pairs of methods?

  2. How can I describe the relations of method1 and method2? Can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"?


Update:
method1 and method2 are not necessarily of the same quality. Each method may have its own pros and cons. For example, method1 might be easier to implement but slower; method2 might be hard to implement but faster.










share|improve this question




















  • 1





    Method1 and 2 are both 'solutions' to the problem. You could call them 'alternatives' - method1 is method2's alternate solution.

    – A R
    Jan 9 at 12:37













  • 1: ("either would) suffice". Both procedures will arrive with a (2:) 'congruent solution'.

    – Mazura
    Jan 9 at 21:41











  • Are the two solutions of the same quality or not?

    – Kat
    Jan 10 at 18:00











  • @Kat They may not. Please see my updated question.

    – Ida
    Jan 11 at 2:46
















6















I want to describe a type of pairs , that method1 and method2 have different implementations/settings, but both can be used to solve the same task.



My questions are:




  1. Is there any terms/phrases or succinct ways to describe such pairs of methods?

  2. How can I describe the relations of method1 and method2? Can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"?


Update:
method1 and method2 are not necessarily of the same quality. Each method may have its own pros and cons. For example, method1 might be easier to implement but slower; method2 might be hard to implement but faster.










share|improve this question




















  • 1





    Method1 and 2 are both 'solutions' to the problem. You could call them 'alternatives' - method1 is method2's alternate solution.

    – A R
    Jan 9 at 12:37













  • 1: ("either would) suffice". Both procedures will arrive with a (2:) 'congruent solution'.

    – Mazura
    Jan 9 at 21:41











  • Are the two solutions of the same quality or not?

    – Kat
    Jan 10 at 18:00











  • @Kat They may not. Please see my updated question.

    – Ida
    Jan 11 at 2:46














6












6








6


1






I want to describe a type of pairs , that method1 and method2 have different implementations/settings, but both can be used to solve the same task.



My questions are:




  1. Is there any terms/phrases or succinct ways to describe such pairs of methods?

  2. How can I describe the relations of method1 and method2? Can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"?


Update:
method1 and method2 are not necessarily of the same quality. Each method may have its own pros and cons. For example, method1 might be easier to implement but slower; method2 might be hard to implement but faster.










share|improve this question
















I want to describe a type of pairs , that method1 and method2 have different implementations/settings, but both can be used to solve the same task.



My questions are:




  1. Is there any terms/phrases or succinct ways to describe such pairs of methods?

  2. How can I describe the relations of method1 and method2? Can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"?


Update:
method1 and method2 are not necessarily of the same quality. Each method may have its own pros and cons. For example, method1 might be easier to implement but slower; method2 might be hard to implement but faster.







phrase-requests expression-requests






share|improve this question















share|improve this question













share|improve this question




share|improve this question








edited Jan 11 at 2:44







Ida

















asked Jan 9 at 7:22









IdaIda

17617




17617








  • 1





    Method1 and 2 are both 'solutions' to the problem. You could call them 'alternatives' - method1 is method2's alternate solution.

    – A R
    Jan 9 at 12:37













  • 1: ("either would) suffice". Both procedures will arrive with a (2:) 'congruent solution'.

    – Mazura
    Jan 9 at 21:41











  • Are the two solutions of the same quality or not?

    – Kat
    Jan 10 at 18:00











  • @Kat They may not. Please see my updated question.

    – Ida
    Jan 11 at 2:46














  • 1





    Method1 and 2 are both 'solutions' to the problem. You could call them 'alternatives' - method1 is method2's alternate solution.

    – A R
    Jan 9 at 12:37













  • 1: ("either would) suffice". Both procedures will arrive with a (2:) 'congruent solution'.

    – Mazura
    Jan 9 at 21:41











  • Are the two solutions of the same quality or not?

    – Kat
    Jan 10 at 18:00











  • @Kat They may not. Please see my updated question.

    – Ida
    Jan 11 at 2:46








1




1





Method1 and 2 are both 'solutions' to the problem. You could call them 'alternatives' - method1 is method2's alternate solution.

– A R
Jan 9 at 12:37







Method1 and 2 are both 'solutions' to the problem. You could call them 'alternatives' - method1 is method2's alternate solution.

– A R
Jan 9 at 12:37















1: ("either would) suffice". Both procedures will arrive with a (2:) 'congruent solution'.

– Mazura
Jan 9 at 21:41





1: ("either would) suffice". Both procedures will arrive with a (2:) 'congruent solution'.

– Mazura
Jan 9 at 21:41













Are the two solutions of the same quality or not?

– Kat
Jan 10 at 18:00





Are the two solutions of the same quality or not?

– Kat
Jan 10 at 18:00













@Kat They may not. Please see my updated question.

– Ida
Jan 11 at 2:46





@Kat They may not. Please see my updated question.

– Ida
Jan 11 at 2:46










10 Answers
10






active

oldest

votes


















21














The word "alternative" would work here. It's pretty versatile, so it should cover your context. It can be used no matter the level of formality you want and can be used to describe a wide variety of things. Here are some examples:





  • We present two quicksort alternatives for cache optimizations which work well on both balanced and unbalanced data sets.
    Improving Memory Performance of Sorting
    Algorithms




  • Is ReactOS a viable Windows alternative? Taking the OS for a test drive




  • The preferred alternative to this method is orElseThrow().
    OptionalLong (Java SE 11 & JDK 11) - Oracle Docs




  • Our selection actually contains more than 20 libraries, as some of them are alternatives to each other and solve the same problem.
    Top 20 Python libraries for data science in 2018








share|improve this answer


























  • Nice. Answers both sub-questions with the same word. +1

    – Lawrence
    Jan 9 at 9:47



















10














I would say that method1 is method2's equivalent:




A person or thing that is equal to or corresponds with another in value, amount, function, meaning, etc.




https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/equivalent






share|improve this answer





















  • 1





    I think this is better than @Laurel's "alternative" because with "equivalent" there is no insinuation of the methods being superior/inferior to one another.

    – KlaymenDK
    Jan 9 at 18:56



















9














The term "functionally equivalent" springs to mind.



e.g.
The methods are functionally equivalent.
or
A Functional equivalence exists between method1 and method2.






share|improve this answer































    4














    It seems to me that what is salient isn't a property of a method (viz that it can solve a task that another method can solve), but rather a property of a task (that there are two methods that solve it). There's the phrase "there's more than one way to skin a cat".






    share|improve this answer
























    • Thanks! In this context, can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"? (see my updated question)

      – Ida
      Jan 9 at 7:49











    • Method1 is Method2's alternative.

      – Tushar Raj
      Jan 9 at 8:16



















    4














    There's more than one way to skin a cat.



    I think this is more appropriate as it more explicitly relates to processes for achieving something instead of a more abstract comparison.



    Definition:




    There are many methods one may employ in achieving one's ends.




    Used like so:




    We can go with method A if you like but there is more than one way to skin a cat.







    share|improve this answer





















    • 1





      Or "method B is just another way to skin the cat" ...

      – Peter A. Schneider
      Jan 9 at 14:56













    • This is usually said after one method fails (and is much favoured by fictional villains). In any case, I'm not sure this phrase is actually applicable to expressing the relationship between two equally good choices and the example sentence you give seems to agree.

      – tmgr
      Jan 9 at 15:02











    • @tmgr I've updated the usage example. All the definitions of this phrase I can find make no mention of failure explicitly.

      – JonM
      Jan 9 at 15:05











    • You're right - and I agree - I don't think failure is a necessary prelude to the phrase.

      – tmgr
      Jan 9 at 15:09



















    3














    All roads lead to Rome:




    As a proverb, it refers to the fact that many routes can lead to a given result.







    share|improve this answer































      2














      Another metaphorical idiom would be "That's six of one, half a dozen of the other" — i.e. it doesn't matter which, they are equivalent.



      This idiom cannot be used to describe one method in relation to the other; I like the modification of the cat skinning metaphor suggested by JonM for that: "Method B is just another way to skin this cat", or similar.






      share|improve this answer


























      • This is far and away the most common phrase I'd hear in this context. You often hear Six of one... with the rest of the phrase implied, much as with Plus ça change...

        – tmgr
        Jan 9 at 14:23








      • 1





        @tmgr You are welcome to upvote if you think it's a good answer ;-).

        – Peter A. Schneider
        Jan 9 at 14:33











      • I definitely would... if it were a touch more expansive as an answer.

        – tmgr
        Jan 9 at 14:35






      • 1





        @tmgr I am unsure how I could improve it. I have submitted my 2 cents, provided a link and given my explanation. Any suggestions? Btw, feel free to edit it yourself.

        – Peter A. Schneider
        Jan 9 at 14:44













      • Well, OP has two questions. This is a great answer to the first question, not so much the second (but still very much a worthwhile answer). You could explain the phrase, talk about the context in which it is used and its usage (like the bit I mentioned about shortening), maybe even research its origin or first occurrence. I'd be curious! Plus you could include the relevant part of the definition you link to as an inline quote, to save readers clicking through. I won't be editing it, though I'll check back and upvote if you do!

        – tmgr
        Jan 9 at 14:51



















      1














      If both methods for solving the problem are equally good, regarding the choice between them you could say:



      It's as broad as it's long.



      Macmillan says this expression is




      used for saying that you cannot choose between two things or actions because they are equal




      Macmillan also words the phrase slightly differently than I know it: It's as broad as it is long. It also lists the phrase as British and spoken.



      The spoken is important. This phrase is definitely conversational and not technical: you wouldn't write it in a paper. Hence, this is really only an answer to your first question: [Are] there any terms/phrases or succinct ways to describe such pairs of methods?



      I always took it's as broad as it's long to suggest a piece of wood that could be sat on either side: it wouldn't matter which, as it is square. That may well not be its actual origin, but it does express the equilateral geometry of the metaphor of the phrase.



      With it's as broad as it's long, the essence is that it would make absolutely no difference if you went about solving the problem one way or the other, but the choice must between two equivalent options. (You could try it's as broad as it's long as it's high for three interchangeable alternatives, but at that point you've gone off piste and you're on your own.)



      (Personally, I think the idea of exact equivalence might be more elegantly expressed by: it's as broad as it's wide. However, I couldn't recommend that as an option!)






      share|improve this answer

































        0














        Such methods are two sides of the same coin:




        Definition
        To be two things that seem disparate but are actually related.




        Usage instance:




        "He gave me two methods for solving a problem, which are two sides of the same coin."







        share|improve this answer



















        • 3





          This would describe two methods which are actually the same even if they don't look like it at first sight. There is no suggestion of that in the OP: The two methods may be completely different ways to solve a given task. (E.g. you could repossess some stolen item or go to court. That's not two sides of the same coin but solves the given task.) Compare that to either offering a reward to your child for doing a chore or, alternatively, threatening with punishment; these could be considered two sides of the same coin (namely bribery).

          – Peter A. Schneider
          Jan 9 at 14:50





















        0














        I would call the two methods coequal.




        Definition
        Equal with another or each other in rank, ability, extent, etc.




        Usage example:




        Methods 1 and 2 are coequal in their ability to handle the task.







        share|improve this answer























          Your Answer








          StackExchange.ready(function() {
          var channelOptions = {
          tags: "".split(" "),
          id: "97"
          };
          initTagRenderer("".split(" "), "".split(" "), channelOptions);

          StackExchange.using("externalEditor", function() {
          // Have to fire editor after snippets, if snippets enabled
          if (StackExchange.settings.snippets.snippetsEnabled) {
          StackExchange.using("snippets", function() {
          createEditor();
          });
          }
          else {
          createEditor();
          }
          });

          function createEditor() {
          StackExchange.prepareEditor({
          heartbeatType: 'answer',
          autoActivateHeartbeat: false,
          convertImagesToLinks: false,
          noModals: true,
          showLowRepImageUploadWarning: true,
          reputationToPostImages: null,
          bindNavPrevention: true,
          postfix: "",
          imageUploader: {
          brandingHtml: "Powered by u003ca class="icon-imgur-white" href="https://imgur.com/"u003eu003c/au003e",
          contentPolicyHtml: "User contributions licensed under u003ca href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/"u003ecc by-sa 3.0 with attribution requiredu003c/au003e u003ca href="https://stackoverflow.com/legal/content-policy"u003e(content policy)u003c/au003e",
          allowUrls: true
          },
          noCode: true, onDemand: true,
          discardSelector: ".discard-answer"
          ,immediatelyShowMarkdownHelp:true
          });


          }
          });














          draft saved

          draft discarded


















          StackExchange.ready(
          function () {
          StackExchange.openid.initPostLogin('.new-post-login', 'https%3a%2f%2fenglish.stackexchange.com%2fquestions%2f480465%2fphrases-for-two-methods-that-are-different-but-both-can-solve-the-same-task%23new-answer', 'question_page');
          }
          );

          Post as a guest















          Required, but never shown

























          10 Answers
          10






          active

          oldest

          votes








          10 Answers
          10






          active

          oldest

          votes









          active

          oldest

          votes






          active

          oldest

          votes









          21














          The word "alternative" would work here. It's pretty versatile, so it should cover your context. It can be used no matter the level of formality you want and can be used to describe a wide variety of things. Here are some examples:





          • We present two quicksort alternatives for cache optimizations which work well on both balanced and unbalanced data sets.
            Improving Memory Performance of Sorting
            Algorithms




          • Is ReactOS a viable Windows alternative? Taking the OS for a test drive




          • The preferred alternative to this method is orElseThrow().
            OptionalLong (Java SE 11 & JDK 11) - Oracle Docs




          • Our selection actually contains more than 20 libraries, as some of them are alternatives to each other and solve the same problem.
            Top 20 Python libraries for data science in 2018








          share|improve this answer


























          • Nice. Answers both sub-questions with the same word. +1

            – Lawrence
            Jan 9 at 9:47
















          21














          The word "alternative" would work here. It's pretty versatile, so it should cover your context. It can be used no matter the level of formality you want and can be used to describe a wide variety of things. Here are some examples:





          • We present two quicksort alternatives for cache optimizations which work well on both balanced and unbalanced data sets.
            Improving Memory Performance of Sorting
            Algorithms




          • Is ReactOS a viable Windows alternative? Taking the OS for a test drive




          • The preferred alternative to this method is orElseThrow().
            OptionalLong (Java SE 11 & JDK 11) - Oracle Docs




          • Our selection actually contains more than 20 libraries, as some of them are alternatives to each other and solve the same problem.
            Top 20 Python libraries for data science in 2018








          share|improve this answer


























          • Nice. Answers both sub-questions with the same word. +1

            – Lawrence
            Jan 9 at 9:47














          21












          21








          21







          The word "alternative" would work here. It's pretty versatile, so it should cover your context. It can be used no matter the level of formality you want and can be used to describe a wide variety of things. Here are some examples:





          • We present two quicksort alternatives for cache optimizations which work well on both balanced and unbalanced data sets.
            Improving Memory Performance of Sorting
            Algorithms




          • Is ReactOS a viable Windows alternative? Taking the OS for a test drive




          • The preferred alternative to this method is orElseThrow().
            OptionalLong (Java SE 11 & JDK 11) - Oracle Docs




          • Our selection actually contains more than 20 libraries, as some of them are alternatives to each other and solve the same problem.
            Top 20 Python libraries for data science in 2018








          share|improve this answer















          The word "alternative" would work here. It's pretty versatile, so it should cover your context. It can be used no matter the level of formality you want and can be used to describe a wide variety of things. Here are some examples:





          • We present two quicksort alternatives for cache optimizations which work well on both balanced and unbalanced data sets.
            Improving Memory Performance of Sorting
            Algorithms




          • Is ReactOS a viable Windows alternative? Taking the OS for a test drive




          • The preferred alternative to this method is orElseThrow().
            OptionalLong (Java SE 11 & JDK 11) - Oracle Docs




          • Our selection actually contains more than 20 libraries, as some of them are alternatives to each other and solve the same problem.
            Top 20 Python libraries for data science in 2018









          share|improve this answer














          share|improve this answer



          share|improve this answer








          edited Jan 9 at 9:46

























          answered Jan 9 at 8:18









          LaurelLaurel

          31.8k660113




          31.8k660113













          • Nice. Answers both sub-questions with the same word. +1

            – Lawrence
            Jan 9 at 9:47



















          • Nice. Answers both sub-questions with the same word. +1

            – Lawrence
            Jan 9 at 9:47

















          Nice. Answers both sub-questions with the same word. +1

          – Lawrence
          Jan 9 at 9:47





          Nice. Answers both sub-questions with the same word. +1

          – Lawrence
          Jan 9 at 9:47













          10














          I would say that method1 is method2's equivalent:




          A person or thing that is equal to or corresponds with another in value, amount, function, meaning, etc.




          https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/equivalent






          share|improve this answer





















          • 1





            I think this is better than @Laurel's "alternative" because with "equivalent" there is no insinuation of the methods being superior/inferior to one another.

            – KlaymenDK
            Jan 9 at 18:56
















          10














          I would say that method1 is method2's equivalent:




          A person or thing that is equal to or corresponds with another in value, amount, function, meaning, etc.




          https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/equivalent






          share|improve this answer





















          • 1





            I think this is better than @Laurel's "alternative" because with "equivalent" there is no insinuation of the methods being superior/inferior to one another.

            – KlaymenDK
            Jan 9 at 18:56














          10












          10








          10







          I would say that method1 is method2's equivalent:




          A person or thing that is equal to or corresponds with another in value, amount, function, meaning, etc.




          https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/equivalent






          share|improve this answer















          I would say that method1 is method2's equivalent:




          A person or thing that is equal to or corresponds with another in value, amount, function, meaning, etc.




          https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/equivalent







          share|improve this answer














          share|improve this answer



          share|improve this answer








          edited Jan 9 at 12:14









          jimm101

          7,36082139




          7,36082139










          answered Jan 9 at 9:41









          Hlynur Davíð HlynssonHlynur Davíð Hlynsson

          1013




          1013








          • 1





            I think this is better than @Laurel's "alternative" because with "equivalent" there is no insinuation of the methods being superior/inferior to one another.

            – KlaymenDK
            Jan 9 at 18:56














          • 1





            I think this is better than @Laurel's "alternative" because with "equivalent" there is no insinuation of the methods being superior/inferior to one another.

            – KlaymenDK
            Jan 9 at 18:56








          1




          1





          I think this is better than @Laurel's "alternative" because with "equivalent" there is no insinuation of the methods being superior/inferior to one another.

          – KlaymenDK
          Jan 9 at 18:56





          I think this is better than @Laurel's "alternative" because with "equivalent" there is no insinuation of the methods being superior/inferior to one another.

          – KlaymenDK
          Jan 9 at 18:56











          9














          The term "functionally equivalent" springs to mind.



          e.g.
          The methods are functionally equivalent.
          or
          A Functional equivalence exists between method1 and method2.






          share|improve this answer




























            9














            The term "functionally equivalent" springs to mind.



            e.g.
            The methods are functionally equivalent.
            or
            A Functional equivalence exists between method1 and method2.






            share|improve this answer


























              9












              9








              9







              The term "functionally equivalent" springs to mind.



              e.g.
              The methods are functionally equivalent.
              or
              A Functional equivalence exists between method1 and method2.






              share|improve this answer













              The term "functionally equivalent" springs to mind.



              e.g.
              The methods are functionally equivalent.
              or
              A Functional equivalence exists between method1 and method2.







              share|improve this answer












              share|improve this answer



              share|improve this answer










              answered Jan 9 at 17:50









              BigAl_LBLBigAl_LBL

              911




              911























                  4














                  It seems to me that what is salient isn't a property of a method (viz that it can solve a task that another method can solve), but rather a property of a task (that there are two methods that solve it). There's the phrase "there's more than one way to skin a cat".






                  share|improve this answer
























                  • Thanks! In this context, can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"? (see my updated question)

                    – Ida
                    Jan 9 at 7:49











                  • Method1 is Method2's alternative.

                    – Tushar Raj
                    Jan 9 at 8:16
















                  4














                  It seems to me that what is salient isn't a property of a method (viz that it can solve a task that another method can solve), but rather a property of a task (that there are two methods that solve it). There's the phrase "there's more than one way to skin a cat".






                  share|improve this answer
























                  • Thanks! In this context, can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"? (see my updated question)

                    – Ida
                    Jan 9 at 7:49











                  • Method1 is Method2's alternative.

                    – Tushar Raj
                    Jan 9 at 8:16














                  4












                  4








                  4







                  It seems to me that what is salient isn't a property of a method (viz that it can solve a task that another method can solve), but rather a property of a task (that there are two methods that solve it). There's the phrase "there's more than one way to skin a cat".






                  share|improve this answer













                  It seems to me that what is salient isn't a property of a method (viz that it can solve a task that another method can solve), but rather a property of a task (that there are two methods that solve it). There's the phrase "there's more than one way to skin a cat".







                  share|improve this answer












                  share|improve this answer



                  share|improve this answer










                  answered Jan 9 at 7:37









                  Rosie FRosie F

                  60726




                  60726













                  • Thanks! In this context, can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"? (see my updated question)

                    – Ida
                    Jan 9 at 7:49











                  • Method1 is Method2's alternative.

                    – Tushar Raj
                    Jan 9 at 8:16



















                  • Thanks! In this context, can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"? (see my updated question)

                    – Ida
                    Jan 9 at 7:49











                  • Method1 is Method2's alternative.

                    – Tushar Raj
                    Jan 9 at 8:16

















                  Thanks! In this context, can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"? (see my updated question)

                  – Ida
                  Jan 9 at 7:49





                  Thanks! In this context, can I say "method1 is method2's counterpart/peer"? (see my updated question)

                  – Ida
                  Jan 9 at 7:49













                  Method1 is Method2's alternative.

                  – Tushar Raj
                  Jan 9 at 8:16





                  Method1 is Method2's alternative.

                  – Tushar Raj
                  Jan 9 at 8:16











                  4














                  There's more than one way to skin a cat.



                  I think this is more appropriate as it more explicitly relates to processes for achieving something instead of a more abstract comparison.



                  Definition:




                  There are many methods one may employ in achieving one's ends.




                  Used like so:




                  We can go with method A if you like but there is more than one way to skin a cat.







                  share|improve this answer





















                  • 1





                    Or "method B is just another way to skin the cat" ...

                    – Peter A. Schneider
                    Jan 9 at 14:56













                  • This is usually said after one method fails (and is much favoured by fictional villains). In any case, I'm not sure this phrase is actually applicable to expressing the relationship between two equally good choices and the example sentence you give seems to agree.

                    – tmgr
                    Jan 9 at 15:02











                  • @tmgr I've updated the usage example. All the definitions of this phrase I can find make no mention of failure explicitly.

                    – JonM
                    Jan 9 at 15:05











                  • You're right - and I agree - I don't think failure is a necessary prelude to the phrase.

                    – tmgr
                    Jan 9 at 15:09
















                  4














                  There's more than one way to skin a cat.



                  I think this is more appropriate as it more explicitly relates to processes for achieving something instead of a more abstract comparison.



                  Definition:




                  There are many methods one may employ in achieving one's ends.




                  Used like so:




                  We can go with method A if you like but there is more than one way to skin a cat.







                  share|improve this answer





















                  • 1





                    Or "method B is just another way to skin the cat" ...

                    – Peter A. Schneider
                    Jan 9 at 14:56













                  • This is usually said after one method fails (and is much favoured by fictional villains). In any case, I'm not sure this phrase is actually applicable to expressing the relationship between two equally good choices and the example sentence you give seems to agree.

                    – tmgr
                    Jan 9 at 15:02











                  • @tmgr I've updated the usage example. All the definitions of this phrase I can find make no mention of failure explicitly.

                    – JonM
                    Jan 9 at 15:05











                  • You're right - and I agree - I don't think failure is a necessary prelude to the phrase.

                    – tmgr
                    Jan 9 at 15:09














                  4












                  4








                  4







                  There's more than one way to skin a cat.



                  I think this is more appropriate as it more explicitly relates to processes for achieving something instead of a more abstract comparison.



                  Definition:




                  There are many methods one may employ in achieving one's ends.




                  Used like so:




                  We can go with method A if you like but there is more than one way to skin a cat.







                  share|improve this answer















                  There's more than one way to skin a cat.



                  I think this is more appropriate as it more explicitly relates to processes for achieving something instead of a more abstract comparison.



                  Definition:




                  There are many methods one may employ in achieving one's ends.




                  Used like so:




                  We can go with method A if you like but there is more than one way to skin a cat.








                  share|improve this answer














                  share|improve this answer



                  share|improve this answer








                  edited Jan 9 at 15:03

























                  answered Jan 9 at 14:51









                  JonMJonM

                  1515




                  1515








                  • 1





                    Or "method B is just another way to skin the cat" ...

                    – Peter A. Schneider
                    Jan 9 at 14:56













                  • This is usually said after one method fails (and is much favoured by fictional villains). In any case, I'm not sure this phrase is actually applicable to expressing the relationship between two equally good choices and the example sentence you give seems to agree.

                    – tmgr
                    Jan 9 at 15:02











                  • @tmgr I've updated the usage example. All the definitions of this phrase I can find make no mention of failure explicitly.

                    – JonM
                    Jan 9 at 15:05











                  • You're right - and I agree - I don't think failure is a necessary prelude to the phrase.

                    – tmgr
                    Jan 9 at 15:09














                  • 1





                    Or "method B is just another way to skin the cat" ...

                    – Peter A. Schneider
                    Jan 9 at 14:56













                  • This is usually said after one method fails (and is much favoured by fictional villains). In any case, I'm not sure this phrase is actually applicable to expressing the relationship between two equally good choices and the example sentence you give seems to agree.

                    – tmgr
                    Jan 9 at 15:02











                  • @tmgr I've updated the usage example. All the definitions of this phrase I can find make no mention of failure explicitly.

                    – JonM
                    Jan 9 at 15:05











                  • You're right - and I agree - I don't think failure is a necessary prelude to the phrase.

                    – tmgr
                    Jan 9 at 15:09








                  1




                  1





                  Or "method B is just another way to skin the cat" ...

                  – Peter A. Schneider
                  Jan 9 at 14:56







                  Or "method B is just another way to skin the cat" ...

                  – Peter A. Schneider
                  Jan 9 at 14:56















                  This is usually said after one method fails (and is much favoured by fictional villains). In any case, I'm not sure this phrase is actually applicable to expressing the relationship between two equally good choices and the example sentence you give seems to agree.

                  – tmgr
                  Jan 9 at 15:02





                  This is usually said after one method fails (and is much favoured by fictional villains). In any case, I'm not sure this phrase is actually applicable to expressing the relationship between two equally good choices and the example sentence you give seems to agree.

                  – tmgr
                  Jan 9 at 15:02













                  @tmgr I've updated the usage example. All the definitions of this phrase I can find make no mention of failure explicitly.

                  – JonM
                  Jan 9 at 15:05





                  @tmgr I've updated the usage example. All the definitions of this phrase I can find make no mention of failure explicitly.

                  – JonM
                  Jan 9 at 15:05













                  You're right - and I agree - I don't think failure is a necessary prelude to the phrase.

                  – tmgr
                  Jan 9 at 15:09





                  You're right - and I agree - I don't think failure is a necessary prelude to the phrase.

                  – tmgr
                  Jan 9 at 15:09











                  3














                  All roads lead to Rome:




                  As a proverb, it refers to the fact that many routes can lead to a given result.







                  share|improve this answer




























                    3














                    All roads lead to Rome:




                    As a proverb, it refers to the fact that many routes can lead to a given result.







                    share|improve this answer


























                      3












                      3








                      3







                      All roads lead to Rome:




                      As a proverb, it refers to the fact that many routes can lead to a given result.







                      share|improve this answer













                      All roads lead to Rome:




                      As a proverb, it refers to the fact that many routes can lead to a given result.








                      share|improve this answer












                      share|improve this answer



                      share|improve this answer










                      answered Jan 9 at 12:36









                      ukemiukemi

                      37026




                      37026























                          2














                          Another metaphorical idiom would be "That's six of one, half a dozen of the other" — i.e. it doesn't matter which, they are equivalent.



                          This idiom cannot be used to describe one method in relation to the other; I like the modification of the cat skinning metaphor suggested by JonM for that: "Method B is just another way to skin this cat", or similar.






                          share|improve this answer


























                          • This is far and away the most common phrase I'd hear in this context. You often hear Six of one... with the rest of the phrase implied, much as with Plus ça change...

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:23








                          • 1





                            @tmgr You are welcome to upvote if you think it's a good answer ;-).

                            – Peter A. Schneider
                            Jan 9 at 14:33











                          • I definitely would... if it were a touch more expansive as an answer.

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:35






                          • 1





                            @tmgr I am unsure how I could improve it. I have submitted my 2 cents, provided a link and given my explanation. Any suggestions? Btw, feel free to edit it yourself.

                            – Peter A. Schneider
                            Jan 9 at 14:44













                          • Well, OP has two questions. This is a great answer to the first question, not so much the second (but still very much a worthwhile answer). You could explain the phrase, talk about the context in which it is used and its usage (like the bit I mentioned about shortening), maybe even research its origin or first occurrence. I'd be curious! Plus you could include the relevant part of the definition you link to as an inline quote, to save readers clicking through. I won't be editing it, though I'll check back and upvote if you do!

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:51
















                          2














                          Another metaphorical idiom would be "That's six of one, half a dozen of the other" — i.e. it doesn't matter which, they are equivalent.



                          This idiom cannot be used to describe one method in relation to the other; I like the modification of the cat skinning metaphor suggested by JonM for that: "Method B is just another way to skin this cat", or similar.






                          share|improve this answer


























                          • This is far and away the most common phrase I'd hear in this context. You often hear Six of one... with the rest of the phrase implied, much as with Plus ça change...

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:23








                          • 1





                            @tmgr You are welcome to upvote if you think it's a good answer ;-).

                            – Peter A. Schneider
                            Jan 9 at 14:33











                          • I definitely would... if it were a touch more expansive as an answer.

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:35






                          • 1





                            @tmgr I am unsure how I could improve it. I have submitted my 2 cents, provided a link and given my explanation. Any suggestions? Btw, feel free to edit it yourself.

                            – Peter A. Schneider
                            Jan 9 at 14:44













                          • Well, OP has two questions. This is a great answer to the first question, not so much the second (but still very much a worthwhile answer). You could explain the phrase, talk about the context in which it is used and its usage (like the bit I mentioned about shortening), maybe even research its origin or first occurrence. I'd be curious! Plus you could include the relevant part of the definition you link to as an inline quote, to save readers clicking through. I won't be editing it, though I'll check back and upvote if you do!

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:51














                          2












                          2








                          2







                          Another metaphorical idiom would be "That's six of one, half a dozen of the other" — i.e. it doesn't matter which, they are equivalent.



                          This idiom cannot be used to describe one method in relation to the other; I like the modification of the cat skinning metaphor suggested by JonM for that: "Method B is just another way to skin this cat", or similar.






                          share|improve this answer















                          Another metaphorical idiom would be "That's six of one, half a dozen of the other" — i.e. it doesn't matter which, they are equivalent.



                          This idiom cannot be used to describe one method in relation to the other; I like the modification of the cat skinning metaphor suggested by JonM for that: "Method B is just another way to skin this cat", or similar.







                          share|improve this answer














                          share|improve this answer



                          share|improve this answer








                          edited Jan 9 at 14:59

























                          answered Jan 9 at 13:53









                          Peter A. SchneiderPeter A. Schneider

                          1,655515




                          1,655515













                          • This is far and away the most common phrase I'd hear in this context. You often hear Six of one... with the rest of the phrase implied, much as with Plus ça change...

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:23








                          • 1





                            @tmgr You are welcome to upvote if you think it's a good answer ;-).

                            – Peter A. Schneider
                            Jan 9 at 14:33











                          • I definitely would... if it were a touch more expansive as an answer.

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:35






                          • 1





                            @tmgr I am unsure how I could improve it. I have submitted my 2 cents, provided a link and given my explanation. Any suggestions? Btw, feel free to edit it yourself.

                            – Peter A. Schneider
                            Jan 9 at 14:44













                          • Well, OP has two questions. This is a great answer to the first question, not so much the second (but still very much a worthwhile answer). You could explain the phrase, talk about the context in which it is used and its usage (like the bit I mentioned about shortening), maybe even research its origin or first occurrence. I'd be curious! Plus you could include the relevant part of the definition you link to as an inline quote, to save readers clicking through. I won't be editing it, though I'll check back and upvote if you do!

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:51



















                          • This is far and away the most common phrase I'd hear in this context. You often hear Six of one... with the rest of the phrase implied, much as with Plus ça change...

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:23








                          • 1





                            @tmgr You are welcome to upvote if you think it's a good answer ;-).

                            – Peter A. Schneider
                            Jan 9 at 14:33











                          • I definitely would... if it were a touch more expansive as an answer.

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:35






                          • 1





                            @tmgr I am unsure how I could improve it. I have submitted my 2 cents, provided a link and given my explanation. Any suggestions? Btw, feel free to edit it yourself.

                            – Peter A. Schneider
                            Jan 9 at 14:44













                          • Well, OP has two questions. This is a great answer to the first question, not so much the second (but still very much a worthwhile answer). You could explain the phrase, talk about the context in which it is used and its usage (like the bit I mentioned about shortening), maybe even research its origin or first occurrence. I'd be curious! Plus you could include the relevant part of the definition you link to as an inline quote, to save readers clicking through. I won't be editing it, though I'll check back and upvote if you do!

                            – tmgr
                            Jan 9 at 14:51

















                          This is far and away the most common phrase I'd hear in this context. You often hear Six of one... with the rest of the phrase implied, much as with Plus ça change...

                          – tmgr
                          Jan 9 at 14:23







                          This is far and away the most common phrase I'd hear in this context. You often hear Six of one... with the rest of the phrase implied, much as with Plus ça change...

                          – tmgr
                          Jan 9 at 14:23






                          1




                          1





                          @tmgr You are welcome to upvote if you think it's a good answer ;-).

                          – Peter A. Schneider
                          Jan 9 at 14:33





                          @tmgr You are welcome to upvote if you think it's a good answer ;-).

                          – Peter A. Schneider
                          Jan 9 at 14:33













                          I definitely would... if it were a touch more expansive as an answer.

                          – tmgr
                          Jan 9 at 14:35





                          I definitely would... if it were a touch more expansive as an answer.

                          – tmgr
                          Jan 9 at 14:35




                          1




                          1





                          @tmgr I am unsure how I could improve it. I have submitted my 2 cents, provided a link and given my explanation. Any suggestions? Btw, feel free to edit it yourself.

                          – Peter A. Schneider
                          Jan 9 at 14:44







                          @tmgr I am unsure how I could improve it. I have submitted my 2 cents, provided a link and given my explanation. Any suggestions? Btw, feel free to edit it yourself.

                          – Peter A. Schneider
                          Jan 9 at 14:44















                          Well, OP has two questions. This is a great answer to the first question, not so much the second (but still very much a worthwhile answer). You could explain the phrase, talk about the context in which it is used and its usage (like the bit I mentioned about shortening), maybe even research its origin or first occurrence. I'd be curious! Plus you could include the relevant part of the definition you link to as an inline quote, to save readers clicking through. I won't be editing it, though I'll check back and upvote if you do!

                          – tmgr
                          Jan 9 at 14:51





                          Well, OP has two questions. This is a great answer to the first question, not so much the second (but still very much a worthwhile answer). You could explain the phrase, talk about the context in which it is used and its usage (like the bit I mentioned about shortening), maybe even research its origin or first occurrence. I'd be curious! Plus you could include the relevant part of the definition you link to as an inline quote, to save readers clicking through. I won't be editing it, though I'll check back and upvote if you do!

                          – tmgr
                          Jan 9 at 14:51











                          1














                          If both methods for solving the problem are equally good, regarding the choice between them you could say:



                          It's as broad as it's long.



                          Macmillan says this expression is




                          used for saying that you cannot choose between two things or actions because they are equal




                          Macmillan also words the phrase slightly differently than I know it: It's as broad as it is long. It also lists the phrase as British and spoken.



                          The spoken is important. This phrase is definitely conversational and not technical: you wouldn't write it in a paper. Hence, this is really only an answer to your first question: [Are] there any terms/phrases or succinct ways to describe such pairs of methods?



                          I always took it's as broad as it's long to suggest a piece of wood that could be sat on either side: it wouldn't matter which, as it is square. That may well not be its actual origin, but it does express the equilateral geometry of the metaphor of the phrase.



                          With it's as broad as it's long, the essence is that it would make absolutely no difference if you went about solving the problem one way or the other, but the choice must between two equivalent options. (You could try it's as broad as it's long as it's high for three interchangeable alternatives, but at that point you've gone off piste and you're on your own.)



                          (Personally, I think the idea of exact equivalence might be more elegantly expressed by: it's as broad as it's wide. However, I couldn't recommend that as an option!)






                          share|improve this answer






























                            1














                            If both methods for solving the problem are equally good, regarding the choice between them you could say:



                            It's as broad as it's long.



                            Macmillan says this expression is




                            used for saying that you cannot choose between two things or actions because they are equal




                            Macmillan also words the phrase slightly differently than I know it: It's as broad as it is long. It also lists the phrase as British and spoken.



                            The spoken is important. This phrase is definitely conversational and not technical: you wouldn't write it in a paper. Hence, this is really only an answer to your first question: [Are] there any terms/phrases or succinct ways to describe such pairs of methods?



                            I always took it's as broad as it's long to suggest a piece of wood that could be sat on either side: it wouldn't matter which, as it is square. That may well not be its actual origin, but it does express the equilateral geometry of the metaphor of the phrase.



                            With it's as broad as it's long, the essence is that it would make absolutely no difference if you went about solving the problem one way or the other, but the choice must between two equivalent options. (You could try it's as broad as it's long as it's high for three interchangeable alternatives, but at that point you've gone off piste and you're on your own.)



                            (Personally, I think the idea of exact equivalence might be more elegantly expressed by: it's as broad as it's wide. However, I couldn't recommend that as an option!)






                            share|improve this answer




























                              1












                              1








                              1







                              If both methods for solving the problem are equally good, regarding the choice between them you could say:



                              It's as broad as it's long.



                              Macmillan says this expression is




                              used for saying that you cannot choose between two things or actions because they are equal




                              Macmillan also words the phrase slightly differently than I know it: It's as broad as it is long. It also lists the phrase as British and spoken.



                              The spoken is important. This phrase is definitely conversational and not technical: you wouldn't write it in a paper. Hence, this is really only an answer to your first question: [Are] there any terms/phrases or succinct ways to describe such pairs of methods?



                              I always took it's as broad as it's long to suggest a piece of wood that could be sat on either side: it wouldn't matter which, as it is square. That may well not be its actual origin, but it does express the equilateral geometry of the metaphor of the phrase.



                              With it's as broad as it's long, the essence is that it would make absolutely no difference if you went about solving the problem one way or the other, but the choice must between two equivalent options. (You could try it's as broad as it's long as it's high for three interchangeable alternatives, but at that point you've gone off piste and you're on your own.)



                              (Personally, I think the idea of exact equivalence might be more elegantly expressed by: it's as broad as it's wide. However, I couldn't recommend that as an option!)






                              share|improve this answer















                              If both methods for solving the problem are equally good, regarding the choice between them you could say:



                              It's as broad as it's long.



                              Macmillan says this expression is




                              used for saying that you cannot choose between two things or actions because they are equal




                              Macmillan also words the phrase slightly differently than I know it: It's as broad as it is long. It also lists the phrase as British and spoken.



                              The spoken is important. This phrase is definitely conversational and not technical: you wouldn't write it in a paper. Hence, this is really only an answer to your first question: [Are] there any terms/phrases or succinct ways to describe such pairs of methods?



                              I always took it's as broad as it's long to suggest a piece of wood that could be sat on either side: it wouldn't matter which, as it is square. That may well not be its actual origin, but it does express the equilateral geometry of the metaphor of the phrase.



                              With it's as broad as it's long, the essence is that it would make absolutely no difference if you went about solving the problem one way or the other, but the choice must between two equivalent options. (You could try it's as broad as it's long as it's high for three interchangeable alternatives, but at that point you've gone off piste and you're on your own.)



                              (Personally, I think the idea of exact equivalence might be more elegantly expressed by: it's as broad as it's wide. However, I couldn't recommend that as an option!)







                              share|improve this answer














                              share|improve this answer



                              share|improve this answer








                              edited Jan 10 at 1:12

























                              answered Jan 9 at 14:18









                              tmgrtmgr

                              3,18911026




                              3,18911026























                                  0














                                  Such methods are two sides of the same coin:




                                  Definition
                                  To be two things that seem disparate but are actually related.




                                  Usage instance:




                                  "He gave me two methods for solving a problem, which are two sides of the same coin."







                                  share|improve this answer



















                                  • 3





                                    This would describe two methods which are actually the same even if they don't look like it at first sight. There is no suggestion of that in the OP: The two methods may be completely different ways to solve a given task. (E.g. you could repossess some stolen item or go to court. That's not two sides of the same coin but solves the given task.) Compare that to either offering a reward to your child for doing a chore or, alternatively, threatening with punishment; these could be considered two sides of the same coin (namely bribery).

                                    – Peter A. Schneider
                                    Jan 9 at 14:50


















                                  0














                                  Such methods are two sides of the same coin:




                                  Definition
                                  To be two things that seem disparate but are actually related.




                                  Usage instance:




                                  "He gave me two methods for solving a problem, which are two sides of the same coin."







                                  share|improve this answer



















                                  • 3





                                    This would describe two methods which are actually the same even if they don't look like it at first sight. There is no suggestion of that in the OP: The two methods may be completely different ways to solve a given task. (E.g. you could repossess some stolen item or go to court. That's not two sides of the same coin but solves the given task.) Compare that to either offering a reward to your child for doing a chore or, alternatively, threatening with punishment; these could be considered two sides of the same coin (namely bribery).

                                    – Peter A. Schneider
                                    Jan 9 at 14:50
















                                  0












                                  0








                                  0







                                  Such methods are two sides of the same coin:




                                  Definition
                                  To be two things that seem disparate but are actually related.




                                  Usage instance:




                                  "He gave me two methods for solving a problem, which are two sides of the same coin."







                                  share|improve this answer













                                  Such methods are two sides of the same coin:




                                  Definition
                                  To be two things that seem disparate but are actually related.




                                  Usage instance:




                                  "He gave me two methods for solving a problem, which are two sides of the same coin."








                                  share|improve this answer












                                  share|improve this answer



                                  share|improve this answer










                                  answered Jan 9 at 9:15









                                  AhmedAhmed

                                  3,64912052




                                  3,64912052








                                  • 3





                                    This would describe two methods which are actually the same even if they don't look like it at first sight. There is no suggestion of that in the OP: The two methods may be completely different ways to solve a given task. (E.g. you could repossess some stolen item or go to court. That's not two sides of the same coin but solves the given task.) Compare that to either offering a reward to your child for doing a chore or, alternatively, threatening with punishment; these could be considered two sides of the same coin (namely bribery).

                                    – Peter A. Schneider
                                    Jan 9 at 14:50
















                                  • 3





                                    This would describe two methods which are actually the same even if they don't look like it at first sight. There is no suggestion of that in the OP: The two methods may be completely different ways to solve a given task. (E.g. you could repossess some stolen item or go to court. That's not two sides of the same coin but solves the given task.) Compare that to either offering a reward to your child for doing a chore or, alternatively, threatening with punishment; these could be considered two sides of the same coin (namely bribery).

                                    – Peter A. Schneider
                                    Jan 9 at 14:50










                                  3




                                  3





                                  This would describe two methods which are actually the same even if they don't look like it at first sight. There is no suggestion of that in the OP: The two methods may be completely different ways to solve a given task. (E.g. you could repossess some stolen item or go to court. That's not two sides of the same coin but solves the given task.) Compare that to either offering a reward to your child for doing a chore or, alternatively, threatening with punishment; these could be considered two sides of the same coin (namely bribery).

                                  – Peter A. Schneider
                                  Jan 9 at 14:50







                                  This would describe two methods which are actually the same even if they don't look like it at first sight. There is no suggestion of that in the OP: The two methods may be completely different ways to solve a given task. (E.g. you could repossess some stolen item or go to court. That's not two sides of the same coin but solves the given task.) Compare that to either offering a reward to your child for doing a chore or, alternatively, threatening with punishment; these could be considered two sides of the same coin (namely bribery).

                                  – Peter A. Schneider
                                  Jan 9 at 14:50













                                  0














                                  I would call the two methods coequal.




                                  Definition
                                  Equal with another or each other in rank, ability, extent, etc.




                                  Usage example:




                                  Methods 1 and 2 are coequal in their ability to handle the task.







                                  share|improve this answer




























                                    0














                                    I would call the two methods coequal.




                                    Definition
                                    Equal with another or each other in rank, ability, extent, etc.




                                    Usage example:




                                    Methods 1 and 2 are coequal in their ability to handle the task.







                                    share|improve this answer


























                                      0












                                      0








                                      0







                                      I would call the two methods coequal.




                                      Definition
                                      Equal with another or each other in rank, ability, extent, etc.




                                      Usage example:




                                      Methods 1 and 2 are coequal in their ability to handle the task.







                                      share|improve this answer













                                      I would call the two methods coequal.




                                      Definition
                                      Equal with another or each other in rank, ability, extent, etc.




                                      Usage example:




                                      Methods 1 and 2 are coequal in their ability to handle the task.








                                      share|improve this answer












                                      share|improve this answer



                                      share|improve this answer










                                      answered Jan 10 at 0:49









                                      pjspjs

                                      1213




                                      1213






























                                          draft saved

                                          draft discarded




















































                                          Thanks for contributing an answer to English Language & Usage Stack Exchange!


                                          • Please be sure to answer the question. Provide details and share your research!

                                          But avoid



                                          • Asking for help, clarification, or responding to other answers.

                                          • Making statements based on opinion; back them up with references or personal experience.


                                          To learn more, see our tips on writing great answers.




                                          draft saved


                                          draft discarded














                                          StackExchange.ready(
                                          function () {
                                          StackExchange.openid.initPostLogin('.new-post-login', 'https%3a%2f%2fenglish.stackexchange.com%2fquestions%2f480465%2fphrases-for-two-methods-that-are-different-but-both-can-solve-the-same-task%23new-answer', 'question_page');
                                          }
                                          );

                                          Post as a guest















                                          Required, but never shown





















































                                          Required, but never shown














                                          Required, but never shown












                                          Required, but never shown







                                          Required, but never shown

































                                          Required, but never shown














                                          Required, but never shown












                                          Required, but never shown







                                          Required, but never shown







                                          Popular posts from this blog

                                          How to change which sound is reproduced for terminal bell?

                                          Title Spacing in Bjornstrup Chapter, Removing Chapter Number From Contents

                                          Can I use Tabulator js library in my java Spring + Thymeleaf project?