Similar Figures

Similar figures have the same shape, but might not be the same size. 

• When two shapes are similar, their corresponding sides are proportional (see ratios and proportions) and their corresponding angles are congruent.
• An older sister and a younger sister might be considered similar

Congruent figures have the same shape and size.

• When two shapes are congruent, their corresponding sides and angles are congruent.
• Identical twins might be considered congruent

Here are two symbols that you need to know:

~ means similar
≅ means congruent

Look Out: be careful when reading which sides correspond to each other; the shapes may be rotated.