Twin: meaning, definitions and examples

Twin is used when referring to one of two children born to the same mother at the same time, or to describe two things that are very similar or look identical.

• My twin brother and I share the same birthday.
• These two cars are twins; you can hardly tell them apart.

Doppelganger is used to describe someone who looks exactly like someone else, often implying a mysterious or eerie similarity. This term has a slightly negative or uncanny connotation.

• I was freaked out when I saw my doppelganger at the coffee shop.
• People say everyone has a doppelganger somewhere in the world.

Duplicate can be used when referring to an exact copy of something, usually an object, document, or data. It can imply intention and precision in the copying process.

• Please keep a duplicate of this document in your files.
• The artist made a duplicate of the sculpture for the gallery display.

Pair is appropriate when talking about two things that are used together or are naturally occurring together, often suggesting they complement each other.

• I bought a new pair of shoes.
• Those two friends make a great pair in any project.