Worlds apart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Worlds apart" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe two things that are very different or distant from each other, either physically or metaphorically. Example: "Despite being siblings, their lifestyles are worlds apart; one is a free spirit while the other is very structured and traditional."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Worlds Apart Both clubs have been decked out for a summer's worth of warm-up races.

The New York Times - Sports

Worlds Apart.

Huffington Post

Worlds apart.

Vice

It's worlds apart.

Independent

But the accommodations provided are worlds apart.

The New York Times

The two seem worlds apart.

The Guardian

Digested read, digested: Worlds apart.

The Guardian - Books

They share much, yet are worlds apart.

The Guardian - Sport

The authors of Worlds Apart are clear.

The Guardian - Opinion

But their streets are worlds apart.

The New York Times

Yet in economic terms they are worlds apart.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Worlds apart", consider if a more specific adjective might provide greater clarity. For example, instead of saying "Their political views are worlds apart", you could say "Their political views are diametrically opposed."

Common error

Avoid using "Worlds apart" when the difference is minor or superficial. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the disparity is substantial and impactful. Overusing it can dilute its effectiveness and create hyperbole.

Linguistic Context

"Worlds apart" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a state of extreme difference or separation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys a sense of vast disparity, supported by numerous examples demonstrating its use in contrasting situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "worlds apart" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote significant differences or separations. Ludwig AI supports this, showing its prevalence across various contexts. While versatile, it's best used when highlighting substantial disparities. Alternatives like "vastly different" or "miles apart" can offer similar meanings, but "worlds apart" is particularly effective in emphasizing the magnitude of the contrast. Keep in mind that overusing it may dilute its impact. This phrase maintains a neutral register and can be found most frequently in News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Vastly different

Emphasizes the magnitude of the difference between two things.

Miles apart

Focuses on the significant distance, whether physical or metaphorical.

Completely different

Highlights the total lack of similarity between two things.

Entirely dissimilar

Stresses the absence of resemblance or likeness.

A world of difference

Emphasizes the substantial impact of the difference.

Far removed

Indicates a significant separation or disconnection.

Light years away

Illustrates a vast, almost immeasurable distance.

Distinctly contrasting

Highlights the clear and obvious differences.

Incomparable

Suggests that the two things cannot be fairly compared due to their differences.

Fundamentally divergent

Indicates a deep and essential difference in their core nature.

FAQs

How can I use "Worlds apart" in a sentence?

Use "Worlds apart" to describe things that are vastly different. For instance, "The lifestyles of the rich and the poor are "worlds apart"" emphasizes the significant disparity between these two groups.

What's a good alternative to "Worlds apart"?

Alternatives include "vastly different", "miles apart", or "completely different". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "Worlds apart" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "Worlds apart" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, in highly formal contexts, consider alternatives like "fundamentally divergent" or "entirely dissimilar" for a more sophisticated tone.

What does it mean when things are described as being "Worlds apart"?

It means they are extremely different or separated by a great distance, either physically or metaphorically. This phrase highlights a significant contrast.