a sharp difference

USAGE SUMMARY

"a sharp difference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a large distinction between two things. For example, "There is a sharp difference between the way she talks to her friends and her family."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There was a sharp difference, however, in attitudes toward diversity.

The New York Times

He noted a sharp difference between the two options.

The Guardian - Tech

But there is a sharp difference in the situations.

The New York Times

There was a sharp difference between changes in rainfalls in 1931 1960 and 1961 1990 periods.

Journal of Hydrology

But a sharp difference is how the two perform in turbulent markets.

The New York Times

Warthen analyzed videotape of Green and noticed a sharp difference in his form.

The New York Times - Sports

Optimism about Iran's future prospects will also make a sharp difference.

The Guardian - Opinion

A sharp difference between farmers and the model concerned the beginning of the irrigation period.

Agricultural Systems

There is a sharp difference between Chinese students and international students.

The New York Times

But there is a sharp difference of views over what could have prevented or at least mitigated that crisis.

The New York Times

The moves are similar to what Japanese companies like Toyota, Honda and Nissan have done but with a sharp difference.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sharp difference" to clearly articulate notable distinctions between two or more subjects, ensuring that the context highlights the importance or implications of this difference.

Common error

Avoid using "a sharp difference" when the distinction is obvious or minor. Reserve it for situations where the disparity is significant and warrants specific attention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sharp difference" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a notable and distinct contrast between two or more entities. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a sharp difference" is a widely used and grammatically sound way to highlight a significant distinction between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in diverse contexts ranging from news and media to scientific publications, indicating its versatility and broad applicability. While synonyms like "a marked contrast" or "a distinct variation" exist, "a sharp difference" effectively conveys a notable and easily discernible disparity. Remember to reserve this phrase for situations where the difference is truly significant to avoid overuse in simplistic comparisons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a marked contrast

Emphasizes the degree of dissimilarity, focusing on easily noticeable differences.

a distinct variation

Highlights a clear and recognizable change or deviation.

a pronounced distinction

Focuses on the clarity and noteworthiness of the difference.

a considerable divergence

Indicates a significant deviation or departure from a norm or expectation.

a substantial gap

Suggests a significant difference in amount, size, or degree.

a significant disparity

Highlights inequality or difference, particularly in terms of quantity or quality.

a fundamental opposition

Emphasizes a basic, inherent conflict or contrast.

a clear demarcation

Implies a precise boundary or distinction that separates two things.

a radical departure

Indicates a significant change or deviation from a previous course or method.

a stark divide

Highlights a severe or harsh difference, often indicating conflict or separation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sharp difference" to highlight a notable distinction between two or more things. For example, "There is "a sharp difference" in their approaches to the problem".

What are some alternatives to "a sharp difference"?

Alternatives include "a marked contrast", "a distinct variation", or "a pronounced distinction", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "a sharp difference" or "a big difference"?

"A sharp difference" suggests a more significant and clear-cut distinction than "a big difference", which is more general. The choice depends on the specific context and the degree of emphasis you want to convey.

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

"A sharp difference" implies a clear and easily noticeable distinction, whereas "a subtle difference" indicates a distinction that is not immediately obvious and requires closer examination.