are different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are different" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that two or more subjects have distinct characteristics or qualities. Example: "The two species are different in their mating habits and feeding patterns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There are different approaches.

The New York Times

The facts are different.

The Economist

The Jews are different.

The New Yorker

"My proportions are different".

The New Yorker

Banks, notoriously, are different.

The Economist

Customs are different there.

The New Yorker

Rabobank's securities are different.

The New York Times

Horses are different.

The New York Times

They are different roles".

The New York Times

"All airlines are different.

The New York Times

Cartoons, however, are different.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are different", ensure that the context clearly specifies the aspects in which the subjects differ to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "These apples are different", specify "These apples are different in color and size".

Common error

Avoid using "are different" without clarifying the basis of the difference. Saying "This approach is different" is less effective than specifying, "This approach is different because it prioritizes customer feedback".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are different" functions as a copular verb phrase linking a subject to a predicate adjective, indicating a state of being or a quality of distinction. This is consistent with Ludwig's confirmation of the phrase's correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are different" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to indicate dissimilarity between entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in diverse contexts. Analysis of usage patterns reveals its prevalence in news, encyclopedias, and scientific sources, reflecting a neutral register. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: specify the criteria for the difference to avoid vagueness. By doing so, you can enhance the effectiveness of your communication, making it clear and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are dissimilar

Emphasizes a lack of resemblance, highlighting general differences.

are distinct

Highlights clear and easily recognizable differences.

are not the same

A straightforward way to express dissimilarity, focusing on the absence of sameness.

differ from each other

Explicitly states that the subjects diverge in their characteristics.

vary

Focuses on the range of differences that exist between the subjects.

are diverse

Highlights variety and heterogeneity among the subjects.

are unlike

Stresses the lack of similarity between the subjects.

are disparate

Implies a significant and fundamental difference, often suggesting a lack of connection.

are contrasting

Emphasizes the opposition or striking differences between the subjects.

exhibit differences

A more formal way to state that the subjects show notable distinctions.

FAQs

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

The phrase "are different" indicates that two or more things are not the same. For example: "The two species "are different" in their mating habits.".

What's a more formal way to say "are different"?

Formal alternatives include "are dissimilar", "are distinct", or "differ from each other", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify how things "are different"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the basis of the difference enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity. For instance, instead of "These methods are different", try "These methods "are different" in their approach to data analysis".

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using "are different"?

A common mistake is using "are different" without providing context. To improve clarity, always specify the criteria or characteristics by which the subjects "are different". For example, instead of saying "The results are different", specify "The results "are different" due to the modified experimental conditions".