The analysis distinguishes whether two things must agree in every attribute to be called alike, or only in the relevant respect. Some formulations emphasize complete equality; others permit resemblance within a specified domain.
“To be like ʿAmr in jurisprudence” does not assert equal age, height, family, character or every item of knowledge. It expresses comparison in a restricted skill.
An account of likeness must therefore specify the respect of comparison before affirming or denying it. Otherwise alternative usages of one term generate a merely verbal dispute.