a very different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a very different" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a significant contrast or distinction between two or more things. Example: "The new policy is a very different approach compared to the previous one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"A very different city".

The New York Times

A very different proposition.

The New York Times

A very different experience.

The New Yorker

It's a very different world".

The New York Times - Arts

"It's a very different time".

Independent

"It's a very different electorate".

The New York Times

That's a very different world".

The New York Times

That is a very different thing.

The New York Times

"Córdoba was a very different experience.

Independent

Mr. Dixon gave a very different account.

The New York Times

Now, it is a very different experience.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a very different" to emphasize a notable contrast or shift. This phrase is effective for highlighting changes, distinctions, or alternative perspectives.

Common error

Avoid using "a very different" multiple times in the same paragraph. This can make your writing repetitive. Instead, vary your language with synonyms like "significantly distinct" or "markedly dissimilar".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a very different" functions as a modifier phrase, specifically an adjectival phrase, intensifying the adjective "different". It serves to emphasize the degree of dissimilarity between two or more things. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a very different" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjectival phrase that intensifies the adjective "different", emphasizing a significant distinction or contrast. As indicated by Ludwig AI, its correctness is confirmed. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. When writing, be mindful to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "significantly distinct" or "markedly dissimilar" to maintain variety and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significantly different

Emphasizes the difference to a greater extent.

a markedly distinct

Highlights a clear and noticeable difference.

a substantially altered

Focuses on the degree of change.

a considerably dissimilar

Points out a notable lack of resemblance.

an entirely new

Indicates a complete departure from the original.

a radically changed

Implies a fundamental or extreme transformation.

a transformed

Simple and direct way to express a noticeable change.

distinctly contrasting

Highlights opposing characteristics.

noticeably diverse

Emphasizes the variety and difference.

bearing little resemblance

Indicates a minimal similarity.

FAQs

How can I use "a very different" in a sentence?

Use "a very different" to highlight a notable contrast or change. For example: "The new policy is "a very different" approach compared to the previous one".

What are some alternatives to "a very different"?

You can use alternatives such as "a significantly different", "a markedly distinct", or "a substantially altered" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a very different" in formal writing?

The phrase "a very different" is suitable for formal writing when you want to emphasize a clear and important distinction. However, consider using more sophisticated synonyms like "a considerably dissimilar" or "an entirely new" for added impact.

How does "a very different" compare to "slightly different"?

"A very different" indicates a substantial and noticeable contrast, while "slightly different" implies only a minor or subtle variation. The choice depends on the degree of difference you want to convey.