another thing altogether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "another thing altogether" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a topic or situation is completely different from what has been previously mentioned. Example: "While the project was challenging, the budget constraints were another thing altogether."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

General Conversation

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Whether the seller will notice is another thing altogether.

The New York Times

Whether there are differences between races is another thing altogether".

The New York Times - Science

But losing an entire library is another thing altogether.

The Economist

It's another thing altogether to have them all be winners.

The New York Times

Whether it is a good idea is another thing altogether.

The New York Times - Magazine

South American football is another thing altogether," he reckons.

The Guardian - Sport

Election promises are one thing; post-election realities another thing altogether.

The Economist

But a software bug that literally crashes your car is another thing altogether.

The Washington Post

The man is not quite there; the music is another thing altogether.

The New Yorker

But working in partnership with an untrained wild animal is another thing altogether.

The Washington Post

But batting at the top of the order in Test cricket is another thing altogether.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "another thing altogether" to clearly delineate a shift in topic or perspective, ensuring the reader understands the distinction between two related but separate elements. For instance, use the phrase to contrast the theoretical and practical aspects of a subject.

Common error

Avoid using "another thing altogether" when simply adding a minor detail to an argument. The phrase is best reserved for instances where the shift in topic or consideration is substantial, not merely incremental.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "another thing altogether" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that a subsequent topic or consideration is distinctly different from the previous one. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "another thing altogether" is a common and grammatically sound idiomatic expression used to emphasize a significant difference between two related elements. According to Ludwig AI, it's considered correct and suitable for various contexts, especially in news, media, and formal communications. It serves to introduce a new, often more complex, aspect of a situation. Alternatives like "a different matter entirely" can be used to convey a similar meaning. When employing this phrase, ensure that the shift in topic is substantial, not just a minor detail. The phrase's consistent usage across authoritative sources underscores its reliability and appropriateness in both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a different matter entirely

Focuses on the change in subject or concern.

a separate question altogether

Highlights that the new consideration is distinct and should be assessed on its own merits.

something else entirely

Implies a complete departure from the original topic.

a completely different story

Highlights a change in narrative or circumstances.

an entirely separate issue

Indicates that the topic is unrelated and should be considered independently.

something of a different nature

Highlights a change in the fundamental characteristics of the subject.

a different kettle of fish

Emphasizes the difference in complexity or difficulty.

another kettle of fish

Similar to "a different kettle of fish", emphasizing difference.

a horse of a different color

Indicates a situation that is markedly different from what was previously discussed.

a whole new ballgame

Suggests a completely changed situation with different rules or expectations.

FAQs

How can I use "another thing altogether" in a sentence?

Use "another thing altogether" to introduce a new, significantly different aspect of a situation. For example: "Planning the event is one thing, but executing it successfully is "another thing altogether"."

What is a synonym for "another thing altogether"?

Alternatives include "a different matter entirely", "a completely different story", or "something else entirely".

Is it appropriate to use "another thing altogether" in formal writing?

Yes, "another thing altogether" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you need to emphasize a clear distinction between two related but distinct concepts or issues. Its use is widespread across news and media, as well as in formal business contexts.

What's the difference between "another thing altogether" and "another thing entirely"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "another thing altogether" often implies a more significant difference or a greater shift in perspective than "another thing entirely". The choice often depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.