big mismatch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "big mismatch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant difference or inconsistency between two or more things, such as expectations versus reality or two sets of data. Example: "There was a big mismatch between the survey results and the actual sales figures, leading to confusion among the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

That's a big mismatch".

The New York Times - Tech

A big mismatch exists today between how U.S. C.E.O.'s look at the world and how many American politicians and parents look at the world — and it may be preventing us from taking our education challenge as seriously as we must.

The New York Times

Big mismatch.

Forbes

GS: A big mismatch.

TechCrunch

Caldwell talks about the big mismatch between apps and the web.

TechCrunch

Due to the big mismatch between the lattice constants of NiFe2O4 (8.337 Å) and Si (5.431 Å), the crystal orientation is disorganized [3].

Nanoscale Research Letters

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Colts, 20-17 SUNDAY 1 P.M. Jacksonville (14-2) at Cleveland (2-14) Biggest mismatch of the weekend.

The New York Times - Sports

The Giants' defense against the Ravens' offense is the game's biggest mismatch.

The New York Times - Sports

NO. 15 AMERICAN This could be the biggest mismatch of the first round.

The New York Times

The bookmakers are predicting a massacre, the biggest mismatch of the entire Rugby World Cup.

The Guardian - Sport

— What is it like to witness a first-round mismatch, perhaps the biggest mismatch of the entire N.C.A.A. tournament?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "big mismatch", ensure the context clearly defines the two elements being compared to emphasize the difference effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "big mismatch" when the difference is minor or insignificant, as it can exaggerate the situation and mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "big mismatch" functions as a noun phrase, where "big" modifies the noun "mismatch". It describes a significant difference or incompatibility. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable. The analyzed examples showcase its use in various contexts to describe notable differences.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "big mismatch" effectively conveys a significant discrepancy between two elements. Grammatically correct and usable, according to Ludwig, it finds frequent application in news and media, as well as scientific discourse. While not exceedingly formal, it maintains a neutral register appropriate for diverse contexts. As a conclusion, ensure its usage accurately reflects a substantial divergence, as overstating the mismatch can mislead readers. Related phrases include "significant discrepancy" and "major inconsistency".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

profound incompatibility

Highlights a deep and fundamental inability to coexist or work together.

vast difference

Highlights how the scale of difference is huge

major inconsistency

Highlights a lack of agreement or coherence between two things.

serious incongruity

Draws attention to a lack of harmony or agreement that is significant.

significant discrepancy

Emphasizes a notable difference that may not necessarily imply incompatibility.

marked contrast

Emphasizes the distinct differences between two things.

substantial divergence

Focuses on the act of moving in different directions or differing significantly.

considerable gap

Stresses the space or distance between two points or ideas.

wide gulf

Similar to considerable gap but implies even more separation

glaring disparity

Indicates a clear and obvious difference that is often unfair or unjust.

FAQs

How to use "big mismatch" in a sentence?

Use "big mismatch" to describe a significant difference or incompatibility between two or more things. For instance, "There's a "big mismatch" between the company's promises and its actual performance."

What can I say instead of "big mismatch"?

You can use alternatives like "significant discrepancy", "major inconsistency", or "substantial divergence" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "big mismatch" and "slight difference"?

"Big mismatch" indicates a large and noticeable difference, while "slight difference" suggests a small and less significant distinction.

Is "big mismatch" formal or informal language?

"Big mismatch" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing.