are very different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are very different" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare two or more subjects that have distinct characteristics or qualities. Example: "The two cultures are very different in their traditions and values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are very different.

The New York Times

They are very different.

The New York Times

"Personalities are very different.

Independent

Smartphones are very different.

The New York Times - Tech

These are very different.

The New York Times

Polls are very different.

The Guardian

Attitudes are very different.

The Washington Post

These are very different concepts.

Independent

These are very different words.

The Economist

They are very different propositions.

The New York Times - Arts

My views are very different.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are very different", ensure you provide context or examples to illustrate the specific differences you are highlighting, adding clarity and impact to your statement.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that things "are very different" without offering specific examples or explanations. This can leave your audience unconvinced or unsure of the actual distinctions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are very different" functions as a comparative descriptor, highlighting the distinctions between two or more subjects. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's a grammatically correct way to emphasize dissimilarity. Examples show this phrase is often used in news and media to contrast different concepts or viewpoints.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are very different" serves as a straightforward way to emphasize the distinctions between subjects. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability, a fact that is echoed in the frequent examples found across diverse sources, particularly within news and media. While versatile, ensure to provide specific details to support your claims and bolster the clarity of your writing. Related phrases such as "are quite distinct" or "differ significantly" can offer subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are quite distinct

Emphasizes the separateness and clarity of the differences.

differ significantly

Highlights the magnitude or importance of the differences.

are markedly dissimilar

Stresses the noticeable and easily observed differences.

contrast sharply

Focuses on the contrasting nature of the compared items.

bear little resemblance

Indicates a minimal degree of similarity between the subjects.

are worlds apart

Suggests a vast and unbridgeable gap between the compared items.

stand in stark contrast

Emphasizes the dramatic and obvious opposition.

diverge considerably

Highlights the extent to which the subjects have moved apart or developed differently.

represent opposite extremes

Positions the subjects at opposing ends of a spectrum.

are poles apart

A more emphatic way of saying the subjects are completely different.

FAQs

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

Use "are very different" to compare two or more things that possess notably distinct qualities or characteristics. For example: "The cultures "are very different" in their approach to family life."

What are some alternatives to saying "are very different"?

Alternatives include phrases like "are quite distinct", "differ significantly", or "are markedly dissimilar", depending on the degree and nature of the difference you want to emphasize.

Is it always necessary to explain how things "are very different"?

While not always mandatory, explaining the specific differences provides clarity and strengthens your argument. Vague statements can weaken your message; providing supporting details makes your comparison more compelling.

How does the tone of "are very different" compare to "differ slightly"?

"Are very different" implies a significant divergence, while "differ slightly" suggests only minor variations. Choose your wording carefully to accurately reflect the extent of the dissimilarity.