Vocabulary: Many words are recognizable across the languages, with slight variations in pronunciation and spelling.
Grammar: The basic grammar structures (subject-verb-object, noun declensions, verb conjugations) are similar, although with different nuances.
Pronunciation: There are some similarities in pronunciation, especially in vowel sounds.
However, there are also significant differences:
Pronunciation: The consonant sounds and intonation patterns are quite distinct between the languages.
Vocabulary: While many words are shared, there are also numerous differences, especially in everyday vocabulary.
Grammar: While the core structures are similar, there are significant differences in verb conjugations, articles, and gender agreement.
Cultural influences: Each language has been influenced by its own unique history, culture, and geographic location, leading to further differences in vocabulary, grammar, and idioms.
So, are they similar? Yes, they share a common ancestor and have many similarities in structure and vocabulary. But, they are also distinct languages with their own unique features.
Think of them like siblings: They share a family resemblance, but they also have their own personalities and quirks.