"compare with" and "compare to"

[kaneskan]

I have no idea when to use "compare with" and "compare to". What is the difference? Please help me...

[Archie]

COMPARE

USAGE NOTE Compare usually takes the preposition to when it refers to the activity of describing the resemblances between unlike things: He compared her to a summer day. Scientists sometimes compare the human brain to a computer.

It takes with when it refers to the act of examining two like things in order to discern their similarities or differences: The police compared the forged signature with the original. The committee will have to compare the Senate's version of the bill with the version that was passed by the House.

When compare is used to mean “to liken (one) with another,” with is traditionally held to be the correct preposition: That little bauble is not to be compared with (not to) this enormous jewel. But to is frequently used in this context and is not incorrect.

http://www.answers.com/compared%20with

[kaneskan]

Thanks a lot!!!