apples and oranges

Definition

A comparison of items that, however categorically similar, is inapt; an incompatible analogy, or the items so compared; a disanalogy.

Example Sentences

• "It's apples and oranges. You can't convert square meters to linear inches."
• "So on the one hand, comparing policing issues in Scotland with what is happening in England may be like comparing apples and oranges."
• "In comparing Britain with other countries, it is important to remember that we are not comparing like with like; there is an apples and oranges issue."