a serious difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a serious difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or important distinction between two or more things. Example: "There is a serious difference between the two proposals that needs to be addressed before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

It is time, as well, for the Jewish community as a whole to relate differently to those in their midst who have a serious difference of opinion with Israel.

Huffington Post

"This is a serious difference between us," she said.

The Guardian

There are now signs of a serious difference in approach between Britain and America.

The Guardian - Opinion

The rhetoric did make a serious difference in the views of white Southerners.

The New Yorker

Focus on no more than three or four things that will make a serious difference".

The Guardian

There's a serious difference between being conservative (as I am) and conservatives who foster increasing income disparity.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

And as much as we like Tim Hardaway, Jr. and Iman Shumpert, neither is a serious difference-maker for 82 games.

Huffington Post

The more complex answer would recognise that any serious difference between human beings in a society raises broadly political questions.

The Guardian

To make any serious difference, there has to be action by ministers.

The Guardian - Opinion

It looks like a pretty serious difference to me, although we're still talking dark grey on light grey as opposed to black and white.

TechCrunch

I note that no debater remarked on last year's historic victory for the trans community under Title VII in the Mia Macy v. Eric Holder decision, a point of serious difference in civil rights protections for the trans community compared with the gay community.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using stronger synonyms like "disparity", "divergence", or "distinction" when you want to emphasize the magnitude or importance of the difference.

Common error

Avoid using "a serious difference" when the difference is trivial or minor. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a serious difference" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It describes a significant distinction or divergence between two or more things, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

11%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a serious difference" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a significant distinction. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is acceptable and frequently appears in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to ensure its usage aligns with the actual importance of the difference being described. Consider alternatives like "significant disparity" or "crucial distinction" to further refine the intended meaning and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant disparity

Focuses on the scale of the difference between two things.

a major divergence

Emphasizes the act of splitting off and becoming different.

a crucial distinction

Highlights that the difference is vital or essential.

a considerable variation

Suggests a noticeable change or deviation.

a marked contrast

Draws attention to differences that are easily observed.

an important distinction

Indicates that the difference holds significance.

a fundamental disagreement

Highlights a deep-seated difference in opinion.

a consequential alteration

Stresses that the change has important results.

a profound deviation

Emphasizes the depth and extent of the difference.

a substantial modification

Indicates a significant change in form or qualities.

FAQs

What does "a serious difference" mean?

The phrase "a serious difference" refers to a notable and important distinction between two or more things. It indicates that the difference is significant enough to warrant attention or consideration.

What can I say instead of "a serious difference"?

You can use alternatives like "a significant disparity", "a major divergence", or "a crucial distinction" depending on the specific context.

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

You can use "a serious difference" to highlight a key distinction. For example: "There is "a serious difference" between the proposed policies that needs careful consideration."

Is it more appropriate to say "a serious difference" or "an important difference"?

Both "a serious difference" and "an important difference" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. However, "a serious difference" might imply a greater degree of impact or consequence compared to "an important difference."