be dissimilar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be dissimilar" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the need for two or more things to be different from each other. Example: "In order to create a diverse team, we need to ensure that the candidates we select be dissimilar in their backgrounds and experiences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Here it is looking like it won't be dissimilar.

Independent

But, 15 years after its inception, we return on Wednesday to a regime that will not be dissimilar.

The Guardian - Money

"The takeover would not be dissimilar to the area we occupied in the gulf war," the official said.

The New York Times

So while the travelling group won't be dissimilar to the 23 we took to Scotland, the batting order might change.

Independent

Swilling booze Watching Britons drink booze abroad can't be dissimilar to witnessing the last few hours before prohibition was introduced to Chicago in 1920.

The Guardian - Film

With the obvious exception of starkly different attitudes to corruption, the two men's leadership style does not appear to be dissimilar.

The Guardian

The effect will not be dissimilar to that other place with no windows and no natural light but a whole lot of fake, painted sky: Las Vegas casinos.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The materials used for the two junction-forming layers must be dissimilar to the absorber in order to produce the built-in electric field and to carry the electric current.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, conversion rates have proved to be dissimilar.

TechCrunch

Although floating and fixed rates appear to be dissimilar, they are members of the same family.

Forbes

Compound rankings were proven to be dissimilar to those of other virtual screening techniques.

Journal of Cheminformatics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be dissimilar", ensure that the context clearly identifies the elements being compared. For instance, specify "the two approaches be dissimilar in their methodology" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "be dissimilar" when a simpler word like "different" suffices. Overusing complex vocabulary can make your writing sound stilted. For example, instead of saying "the colors be dissimilar", simply state "the colors are different".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be dissimilar" functions as a predicate adjective phrase. It describes a state of not being similar or alike. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples where it's used to compare and contrast different elements, highlighting their lack of resemblance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be dissimilar" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a lack of similarity between entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly found in formal writing, particularly in scientific and news contexts. While simpler alternatives like ""be different"" exist, "be dissimilar" offers a more precise and nuanced way to express divergence. When using this phrase, clarity is key to avoid ambiguity. Be mindful of overuse in simpler comparisons to maintain a natural and engaging writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

differ from each other

This alternative focuses on the act of differing, highlighting a direct contrast between the items being compared.

be unalike

A more direct and straightforward way of stating a lack of similarity.

not resemble each other

This phrase emphasizes the lack of visual or superficial similarity.

be distinguishable

Emphasizes the ability to tell the items apart, highlighting their differences.

vary significantly

This implies a notable degree of difference, often in a measurable or impactful way.

show differences

Focuses on the manifestation of differences rather than simply stating they exist.

be distinct

This suggests a clear and easily recognizable difference.

be disparate

Highlights a fundamental and often irreconcilable difference.

not be comparable

Suggests that the items in question are so different that a meaningful comparison is difficult.

be diverse

Indicates a range of differences, often implying variety and richness.

FAQs

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

Use "be dissimilar" to indicate a lack of resemblance or similarity between two or more things. For example, "The two approaches may "be dissimilar" in their methodology."

What's a simpler way to say "be dissimilar"?

Alternatives to "be dissimilar" include "be different", "be unlike", or "not resemble", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "be dissimilar" or "be different"?

"Be different" is generally more straightforward and widely applicable. "Be dissimilar" implies a more nuanced or significant divergence. Choose the phrase that best fits the context and desired level of formality.

When is "be dissimilar" the most appropriate choice?

"Be dissimilar" is a good choice when you want to emphasize a more profound or structural difference between things. It's often used in scientific, technical, or formal writing where precision is important.