at a different speed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a different speed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is happening at a pace that is not the same as another reference point. Example: "The two cars were racing, but one was moving at a different speed than the other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Computers, however, work at a different speed.

The New York Times - Tech

"She runs at a different speed," she says.

The Guardian

It comes in at a different speed, at a different eye level, and keeps them honest.

The New York Times - Sports

If that doesn't work, you try it at a different speed.

The Guardian - Music

"His engine just runs at a different speed than everyone else's".

The New York Times

It was a different game, played under different rules, at a different speed and a different level of athleticism.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

The reason this is so crucial is that the effects of different greenhouse gases play out in the atmosphere at a different speeds.

The Guardian

We have moved at a totally different speed in this era".

The Guardian

Each of these Fourier modes moves at a different phase speed, but both modes have the same group velocity.

Journal of Computational Physics

Furthermore, Fig. S4b shows linear sweep voltammograms of oxygen reduction process at a different rotation speed of the electrode.

Materials for Renewable and Sustainable Energy

Automakers "operate at a different clock speed than the technology industry," said Chris Stallman, a partner at Fontinalis Partners, a transport-focused venture firm with offices in Detroit and Boston.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing processes or entities, use "at a different speed" to highlight variations in their progression or operation. For example, "The company's departments were adopting the new software at a different speed, leading to integration challenges."

Common error

Don't assume "at a different speed" always refers to physical velocity. It often describes the rate of progress, change, or development. For example, avoid saying "The plant grew at a different speed because it had wheels", since that doesn't make logical sense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a different speed" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a process unfolds. Ludwig AI confirms its valid usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at a different speed" is a common and versatile expression used to indicate variations in pace, rate, or velocity across various contexts. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, highlighting its prevalence in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. When writing, remember that it often refers to the rate of progress and change, not just physical velocity. Consider alternatives like "at an alternate pace" or "at a varying velocity" to achieve the desired nuance. Using Ludwig's diverse examples, you can confidently and accurately incorporate this phrase into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at an alternative pace

Replaces "speed" with "pace", suggesting a different rhythm or tempo.

at a varying velocity

Uses "velocity" instead of "speed", implying a technical or scientific context.

at a disparate rate

Emphasizes the distinctiveness of the rate, suggesting a significant difference.

moving at another tempo

Incorporates "tempo", often used in musical or rhythmic contexts.

progressing at a dissimilar pace

Replaces "at" with "progressing", shifting the focus to the act of moving forward.

operating on a different clock

Uses a metaphorical "clock" to represent the pace or timing.

functioning at an altered rhythm

Employs "rhythm", suggesting a pattern or flow that is different.

with a divergent swiftness

Uses the word "swiftness" to emphasize rapid pace.

at a unique quickness

Uses the word "quickness" to suggest pace but also uniqueness in doing so.

going at a variable clip

Employs the term "clip" for the pace, offering an informal alternative.

FAQs

How can I use "at a different speed" in a sentence?

You can use "at a different speed" to compare the rate of progress, movement, or change between two or more things. For example, "The two projects are developing "at a different speed", one is progressing faster than the other."

What are some alternatives to "at a different speed"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at an alternate pace", "at a varying velocity", or "at a disparate rate" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "at a different speed" or "at different speeds"?

The choice depends on the context. "At a different speed" typically compares two specific rates. "At different speeds" implies multiple distinct rates. For example, "The cars were moving "at a different speed"" versus "The cars were moving "at different speeds"".

What does it mean when someone says things are happening "at a different speed"?

It generally means that the rate of progress, change, or activity is not uniform across all elements being considered. It indicates a disparity in the pace at which things are unfolding.