appear different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appear different" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing how something seems or looks in comparison to something else. Example: "The two paintings may appear different at first glance, but they share similar themes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The two appear different only because they express various genes differently, in developmentally predetermined ways.

The New Yorker

Second, it has statistical limitations (the same effect will appear different if population heterogeneity across eligible trials differs) [ 14].

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

"That's great, but they have a hard time with difference, people who maintain customs, dress, or religion that makes them appear different.

The New Yorker

In other words, it is only the differences in the power conversion efficiency that makes the three curves appear different.

Plosone

Things appear different.

The New York Times - Sports

But things appear different now.

The New York Times

Yet Russia's goals appear different from those in Crimea.

The Economist

Security at the Pentagon this morning did not appear different from any other day.

The Guardian

"It's houses trying to respect surrounding houses, trying not to appear different".

The New York Times

One wonders if this will make the choreographic labors appear different.

The New York Times - Arts

She said the problems with unofficial football and basketball visits appear different.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "appear different", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the subject is being compared to. For example, "The twins appear different in personality, though they are physically identical."

Common error

Avoid using "appear different" without specifying the basis of comparison. For example, instead of saying "The situation appears different", clarify with "The situation appears different now compared to last year."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appear different" functions as a descriptive element, indicating a perceived dissimilarity or contrast. Ludwig shows numerous examples where it modifies nouns or situations to highlight variations in appearance or perception. The grammatical role is typically adjectival, modifying the subject by describing its apparent state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "appear different" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates a perceived dissimilarity or contrast. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and finds application across diverse fields, from science and news to general media. When using "appear different", ensure clarity by specifying what is being compared and avoid ambiguity in your writing. Alternatives like "look distinct" or ""seem dissimilar"" can provide nuanced variations depending on the context, and provide similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seem dissimilar

Focuses on the perceived lack of similarity.

look distinct

Emphasizes the clear and noticeable difference in appearance.

present a contrast

Highlights the existence of opposing qualities or characteristics.

exhibit divergence

Implies a deviation or separation in form or characteristics.

bear no resemblance

Indicates a complete lack of similarity in appearance.

show variation

Points out the existence of differences within a set or group.

manifest dissimilarity

Highlights the visible or evident lack of similarity.

stand apart

Focuses on being noticeably different or distinct from others.

diverge in appearance

Specifically indicates a difference in the way something looks.

contrast sharply

Emphasizes a strong and obvious difference in appearance or qualities.

FAQs

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

You can use "appear different" to describe how things look or seem in comparison to something else. For example, "The two strategies "seem dissimilar" at first, but they share common goals."

What are some alternatives to saying "appear different"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "look distinct", ""seem dissimilar"", or "present a contrast".

Is it correct to say "appear differently" instead of "appear different"?

While "different" is an adjective describing the appearance, "differently" is an adverb describing how something is done. "Appear different" is generally preferred when describing visual distinctions, while "differently" focuses on the manner of appearing. Consider "They behave differently" versus "They appear different".

What's the difference between "appear different" and "be different"?

"Appear different" suggests a superficial or perceived difference, while "be different" indicates an actual, inherent difference. For example, "The houses "appear different" due to the lighting, but their structure is identical" versus "The houses "are different" in size and design".