a palpable difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a palpable difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a notable change or distinction that can be seen, felt, or heard. For example, "I could tell there was a palpable difference in the atmosphere once the storm had passed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Books

Arts

Opinion

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

The changes have already made a palpable difference.

The New York Times - Arts

Viewers can sense a palpable difference between the two- and three-dimensional work.

The New York Times

Without Kidd, the captain, who scored 60 points in the previous two games and 30 points in the fourth quarters combined, there was a palpable difference today.

The New York Times - Sports

There must be and there will be a palpable difference between those countries who want to be members of the European family and those who don't".

The Guardian

There is a palpable difference between a line that's alive and tense and somehow natural, and one that dies like a bum note.

The Guardian - Arts

This morning's poll shows that a change of leader might offer the Lib Dems an electoral dividend that could make a palpable difference.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

It can make an immediate and palpable difference in the daily lives of children who have suffered even the worst forms of abuse".

The New York Times

I noticed it most vividly during an overnight drive to Dallas a week later, when a companion and I both remarked on the palpable difference we felt by the time we were an hour south of the city.

The New York Times

The amateur sleuths run around sticking needles into spheres and tossing off PSI notations — what is the palpable difference between 12.5 and 11.5 PSI anyway, about four exhalations of a veteran toker's breath or a squirt from a Cheez Whiz canister?

The Washington Post

This is perfectly illustrated by the small but palpable difference between The Ramones and Rocket To Russia.

Vice

Europeans have waked up to the fears and palpable differences that arise when borders come down, as seen in the unification of East and West Germany, where after more than a decade, disparities in wealth and spirit persist.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a palpable difference" to describe changes that are easily sensed or felt, not just intellectually understood. It's best applied when the difference is immediately apparent.

Common error

Avoid using "a palpable difference" when the distinction is minor or requires careful analysis to detect. The word "palpable" implies that the difference is readily noticeable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a palpable difference" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It acts as the subject or object in a sentence, denoting a distinction that is easily perceived. Ludwig examples confirm its use in describing noticeable changes or contrasts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

8%

Arts

4%

Less common in

Books

4%

Opinion

2%

Politics

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a palpable difference" is grammatically sound and functions as a noun phrase denoting a readily noticeable distinction. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and common usage in various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure the difference you are describing is indeed easily sensed or felt. While versatile, overuse in describing subtle distinctions should be avoided. Related phrases include "a noticeable distinction" and "a marked contrast", offering alternatives for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a noticeable distinction

Emphasizes the ease with which the difference can be observed.

a marked contrast

Highlights the opposition between two things being compared.

a significant variation

Focuses on the importance or impact of the difference.

a clear divergence

Suggests a separation or deviation from a common point.

a tangible disparity

Highlights the real and measurable aspect of the difference.

an evident alteration

Focuses on the change that has occurred, making the difference apparent.

a perceptible change

Emphasizes that the difference can be sensed or perceived.

a distinct quality

Highlights the unique characteristic setting something apart.

an appreciable shift

Focuses on a noticeable and worthwhile change in something.

a considerable modification

Suggests a substantial alteration or change that creates a difference.

FAQs

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

You can use "a palpable difference" to describe a change that is easily noticeable or felt. For example, "There was "a palpable difference in the air" after the rain stopped."

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

"A palpable difference" refers to a distinction that is easily perceived or felt, while "a subtle difference" refers to one that is not immediately obvious and requires closer examination.

Which is the correct phrase, "palpable difference" or "palpable different"?

"Palpable difference" is the correct phrase, as "palpable" modifies the noun "difference". "Different" is an adjective and doesn't fit this construction.

What are some alternatives to using "a palpable difference" in writing?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a noticeable distinction", "a marked contrast", or "a significant variation" to express a similar idea.