be different from

USAGE SUMMARY

"be different from" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is used to express that one thing is not the same as another thing. Example: Our company's approach to customer service is different from our competitors'.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

But 2015 will be different from 2010.

The Guardian

Will it be different from other research?

The Guardian

But our approach will be different from the Conservatives'".

The Guardian

The answers will be different from one patient to another.

The New York Times

The Last Mermaid will be different from Disney, however.

The Guardian - Music

Like, your life can be different from others.

The New York Times

Fadavi said this year's would be "different" from its predecessors.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Iraq is different from Libya.

The New York Times

They are different from Qaddafi.

The New Yorker

Technique is different from dancing.

The New York Times

That's different from innovation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be different from" when you want to emphasize a distinction or contrast between two or more things. Ensure the context clearly indicates what is being compared.

Common error

Avoid using other prepositions like "than" in place of "from" when using "be different". The correct phrasing is "be different from", not "be different than".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be different from" functions as a comparative phrase, indicating a distinction between two subjects. As evidenced by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used to highlight dissimilarities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be different from" is a versatile and commonly used expression for highlighting distinctions between entities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various domains, from news and media to scientific discourse. When writing, remember that while "different than" is sometimes used, "be different from" is generally preferred for formal contexts. Consider using alternatives like "differ from" or "vary from" to add nuance to your writing. Avoid using "than" instead of "from". By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively use "be different from" to make clear and compelling comparisons in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

differ from

A more concise and direct synonym, suitable for most contexts.

vary from

Focuses on the aspect of deviation or range of difference.

contrast with

Highlights the dissimilar qualities when compared side by side.

stand apart from

Implies a more significant and noticeable divergence.

deviate from

Suggests a departure from a norm or standard.

bear no resemblance to

Emphasizes the lack of similarity between two things.

mark a distinction from

Focuses on a clear and defined difference.

present a divergence from

Formal and emphasizes the act of branching off.

exhibit a disparity with

Highlights a noticeable inequality or difference.

differentiate oneself from

Emphasizes the act of making oneself distinct.

FAQs

How can I use "be different from" in a sentence?

Use "be different from" to compare two distinct entities or concepts, highlighting their dissimilarities. For example, "This year's budget will "be different from" last year's."

What are some alternatives to "be different from"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "differ from", "vary from", or "contrast with" as alternatives to "be different from".

Is it correct to say "different than" instead of "different from"?

While "different than" is sometimes used, especially in American English, "different from" is generally considered more grammatically correct and is preferred in formal writing. Using "different from" ensures clarity and avoids potential criticism.

What's the difference between "be different from" and "be distinct from"?

"Be different from" generally indicates a dissimilarity in any aspect, while "be distinct from" implies a clear and easily recognizable difference, often suggesting uniqueness or individuality. "Be distinct from" is stronger and more emphatic.