are dissimilar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are dissimilar" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe two or more things that are not alike or have differences. Example: "The two paintings are dissimilar in style, with one being abstract and the other realistic."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Which things are dissimilar?

The New York Times

Steve McPhail and Michael Brackenhofer are dissimilar men.

The Guardian - Travel

Secondly, we investigated whether CA and no-CA RF networks are dissimilar in structure.

Nature

Second, their brain functions, as measured by electrical activity and high-tech scanning, are dissimilar.

The Economist

When we try to form connections with people who are dissimilar, those ties tend to decay very quickly.

The Guardian

All three Republicans — Thomas, Kavanaugh and Trump, who are dissimilar in background and temperament — deny the accusations.

The Washington Post

Each painting is specific and different, but they are all also generic, as much alike as they are dissimilar.

The Guardian

The contact materials are dissimilar materials, so that commensurability and mismatch of the crystalline directions are not applicable.

Nature

If its parts are dissimilar, they must represent either a finite or an infinite number of kinds.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This necessitates a holding that the two works are dissimilar as a matter of law under the intrinsic test.

Harvard University

Because bacterial PPAT and mammalian PPAT are dissimilar, this enzyme is an attractive antibacterial target.

European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are dissimilar", ensure that the context clearly identifies the aspects in which the subjects differ. For example, "The two approaches are dissimilar in their methodologies and expected outcomes."

Common error

Avoid using "are dissimilar" when the differences are minor or trivial. Overstating dissimilarity can weaken your argument and make your writing seem hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are dissimilar" functions as a comparative descriptor, indicating that two or more entities possess notable differences. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, emphasizing the distinct characteristics of the compared subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

27%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are dissimilar" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for denoting notable differences between two or more subjects. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and employed across various contexts, particularly in scientific, news media, and academic writing. When using "are dissimilar", ensure that you clearly articulate the specific aspects in which the subjects differ to avoid ambiguity. While the phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, its slightly elevated register makes it more common in professional and academic settings. Consider using alternative phrases like "are different" or "are unlike" for simpler expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are different

This is a more general and common way to express that things are not the same.

are unlike

Similar to "are different", but often implies a stronger contrast.

do not resemble

Focuses on the lack of visual or superficial similarity.

are not comparable

Highlights the inability to directly compare due to significant differences.

are distinct

Emphasizes the clear and easily noticeable differences.

are contrasting

Suggests a sharp difference or opposition between the subjects.

diverge significantly

Implies a gradual separation or deviation from a common point.

lack resemblance

Similar to "do not resemble", but can be used in more formal contexts.

differ markedly

Highlights that the difference between the objects/subjects is notable.

exhibit disparities

Focuses on the presence of inequalities or differences.

FAQs

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

You can use "are dissimilar" to compare two or more subjects and highlight their differences. For example, "The two brothers are dissimilar in personality, with one being outgoing and the other introverted."

What's the difference between "are dissimilar" and "are different"?

While both phrases indicate a lack of similarity, "are dissimilar" often implies a more significant or fundamental difference than "are different". "Dissimilar" suggests a greater degree of unlikeness.

What can I say instead of "are dissimilar"?

You can use alternatives like "are unlike", "do not resemble", or "are distinct" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "are dissimilar" in formal or informal writing?

"Are dissimilar" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, but it's more commonly found in formal or academic contexts due to its slightly elevated register. In more casual settings, "are different" may be preferred.