are rather different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are rather different" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare two or more things that have notable differences. Example: "The two proposals are rather different in their approach to solving the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The realities are rather different.

The Economist

"They are rather different," he acknowledged.

The New York Times

This year things are rather different.

The Economist

Things are rather different now.

The Guardian - Sport

My own nagging worries are rather different.

The Guardian - Books

There the rules are rather different.

The Guardian - Money

But nowadays things are rather different.

The Guardian - Music

My own rules of thumb are rather different.

The Guardian - Opinion

I think my orchestral influences somewhat later are rather different.

The Guardian - Film

Car supermarkets such as AutoNation are rather different.

The Economist

"They didn't like each other a lot … they are rather different in personality".

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are rather different", ensure the context provides a clear basis for comparison. Specify the aspects in which the items being compared differ to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "are rather different" when the differences are minor or insignificant. Instead, opt for more accurate descriptors like "slightly different" or "somewhat similar" to maintain precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are rather different" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. According to Ludwig, this phrase is used to highlight notable distinctions between two or more subjects. It serves to qualify the extent of difference, suggesting it is more than slight but not extreme.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are rather different" is a grammatically correct and frequently used way to express that two or more things have notable distinctions. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples reveals that this phrase is commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. It functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, serving to compare and contrast while conveying the degree of dissimilarity. While versatile, it's essential to ensure the context justifies the extent of the difference to avoid overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are quite distinct

Indicates a clear and easily noticeable difference.

are significantly dissimilar

Emphasizes a notable lack of resemblance.

are substantially different

Highlights a considerable degree of difference.

are markedly different

Suggests that the difference is easily observed or striking.

are noticeably different

Implies that the difference is apparent and easily recognized.

are somewhat different

Suggests a moderate level of difference.

differ to some extent

States that there is a difference but does not specify the magnitude.

are fairly distinct

Indicates a considerable level of dissimilarity.

present some differences

Focuses on the existence of differences without quantifying them.

exhibit some distinctions

Highlights the presence of unique features or characteristics.

FAQs

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

You can use "are rather different" to compare two or more things that have notable differences. For example, "The two proposals "are rather different" in their approach to solving the issue".

What can I say instead of "are rather different"?

You can use alternatives such as "are quite distinct", "are significantly dissimilar", or "are substantially different" depending on the context.

When should I use "are rather different" instead of "are very different"?

"Are rather different" implies a noticeable difference, while "are very different" suggests a more significant and pronounced dissimilarity. Choose the phrase that best reflects the magnitude of the difference you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "are rather different" in formal writing?

Yes, "are rather different" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, in highly formal contexts, you might prefer alternatives like "are quite distinct" or "are markedly different" for a more sophisticated tone.