same same, but different

same same, but different

Said of two things that are similar to some degree but are not actually the same. Commonly used in Mainland Southeast Asia, especially Thailand. A: "Excuse me, do you have this kind of cell phone battery?" B: "Sure thing, here you go." A: "That's not really what I need." B: "Sure it is, same same, but different!" Hey, I might not make as much money as you, but we're both businessmen. Same same, but different! A: "That's not exactly what I'm looking for." B: "Same same, but different. It'll still look great on you!"
See also: but, different, same
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • that feeling when
  • Caturday
  • 10-4
  • (someone or something) to be reckoned with
  • that feel when
  • All-y all-y oxen free!
  • as they say
  • change up
  • cat's claw
  • buy a/the round (of drinks)