a definite difference

USAGE SUMMARY

"a definite difference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an observable, clear, or distinct difference between two things. For example, "After attending the two different schools, I noticed a definite difference in the way the teachers interacted with their students."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Granderson said he noticed a definite difference.

The New York Times

There is, however, a definite difference between the two as works of theater.

The New York Times

A definite difference in approach between two nations that are supposedly going to be big supporters of each other in the future.

The New York Times

In fact there was a definite difference in shades, but the young men were convinced they had seen the true colours of the Islamists.

Independent

Whilst there is a definite difference between the highest and lowest levels, no one's natural SPF is enough to keep the ills of sun damage (that's skin cancer, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, to name but a few) at bay.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Gaining new acquaintances to leverage your career or school life in the long run is never a problem – just remember that there's a definite difference between real friends, and people who you just talk to.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Finally, a third power level estimate can be derived by forcing a positive definite difference between the data autocorrelation matrix and the candidate matrix, as it was done in [24].

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Thus, there is a subtle but definite difference in the distribution of NELF at these two gene loci.

Nature

In addition, with respect to the remarkable differences in AF reduction between the two groups using an identical treatment (exercise), no definite difference in the risk factors was seen.

Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy

In addition to the fact that there is a definite size difference in the major T1-LIR species detected in the two studies, our data indicate that the major cytoplasmic T1-LIR identified by the Proteintech antibody is comprised almost entirely of a cross-reacting protein and not of authentic Thap1.

Acta neuropathologica communications

HOSTA adopts two self-developed high-order compact definite difference schemes WCNS and HDCS that can simulate flows with complex geometries.

Journal of Computational Physics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a definite difference" when you want to emphasize that a difference is clear, noticeable, and not subtle or questionable. It adds weight to the observation.

Common error

Avoid using "a definite difference" when the difference is minor or subjective. Ensure that the distinction is substantial enough to warrant the emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definite difference" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or complement in a sentence. It denotes the existence of a clear and unmistakable distinction. Ludwig's examples confirm its use in various contexts to highlight observable differences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a definite difference" is a common and grammatically correct way to highlight a clear and noticeable distinction. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. According to the Ludwig AI analysis, it serves to emphasize that a difference is not subtle or questionable but rather easily observable. When using this phrase, ensure that the difference is substantial enough to warrant the emphasis, and consider alternatives like "a clear distinction" or "a marked contrast" for nuanced expressions. The phrase maintains a generally neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear distinction

Emphasizes the clarity and recognizability of the difference.

a marked contrast

Highlights the degree of dissimilarity between the items being compared.

a significant variation

Focuses on the importance and size of the difference.

a noticeable disparity

Points out an inequality or imbalance.

an obvious distinction

Highlights the ease with which the difference can be seen or understood.

a tangible difference

Highlights that the difference is concrete and perceptible.

a considerable divergence

Suggests a deviation or branching apart.

a substantial deviation

Implies a notable departure from a standard or norm.

a perceptible change

Highlights that the difference is detectable by the senses.

a distinct characteristic

Emphasizes that the difference is a unique feature.

FAQs

How can I use "a definite difference" in a sentence?

Use "a definite difference" to highlight a clear and easily observable distinction between two or more things. For example, "There's "a definite difference between" the two approaches."

What are some alternatives to "a definite difference"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a clear distinction", "a marked contrast", or "a significant variation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a very definite difference"?

While grammatically correct, "a very definite difference" can be redundant. The word "definite" already implies a high degree of certainty. Using just "a definite difference" is usually sufficient.

What's the difference between "a definite difference" and "a subtle difference"?

"A definite difference" implies that the distinction is easily noticeable and clear, while "a subtle difference" suggests the distinction is minor and requires careful observation.