but different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but different" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a contrast or distinction between two or more things that are similar in some ways but not in others. Example: "The two paintings are both landscapes, but different in their use of color and style."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

They're sexy, but different.

The New York Times

They're related, but different.

The New Yorker

Better, maybe, but different.

The New York Times

"Not better, but different.

The New York Times - Food

They are related but different.

The New York Times

"Not uncomfortable, but different.

The New York Times

Like ABBA, but different.

The Guardian - Music

"But different colors".

The New York Times

Good, but different.

The Guardian - Tech

Important, but different.

The Guardian

But different people.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using “but different”, consider adding a phrase or a clause to explain the nature of the difference; this increases clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "but different" without specifying how things are different. Saying something is "but different" without further explanation can leave your audience confused.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but different" functions as a conjunctive phrase, linking two ideas or descriptions while highlighting a contrast or distinction. As Ludwig AI shows, the structure appears in sentences to qualify a prior statement, adding nuance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but different" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to highlight distinctions following a statement of similarity or relation. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and frequently appears in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. While versatile, ensuring clarity by specifying the nature of the difference is key. Alternative phrases such as "yet distinct" or "however unique" can offer nuanced variations, but "but different" maintains a neutral tone suitable for various forms of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet distinct

Emphasizes the separateness and clarity of the distinction.

however unique

Highlights the singular and unparalleled nature of the difference.

though dissimilar

A more formal way of expressing a lack of resemblance.

while contrasting

Focuses on the presence of opposing characteristics.

albeit diverse

Acknowledges variety and divergence, often in a more elaborate context.

even if altered

Implies a change has occurred resulting in a difference.

notwithstanding variance

A highly formal phrase indicating differences despite certain similarities.

despite divergence

Highlights the act of moving in different directions or deviating from a norm.

although modified

Suggests an alteration has led to a change, resulting in the difference.

in spite of disparities

Emphasizes that the difference exists despite possible similarities.

FAQs

How can I use "but different" in a sentence?

You can use "but different" to show a contrast. For instance, "The styles are related, "but different" in their execution".

What does "but different" mean?

"But different" indicates that while there are similarities, there are also notable distinctions.

What are some alternatives to saying "but different"?

Some alternatives include "yet distinct", "however unique", or "though dissimilar", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "but different"?

The phrase is appropriate in many contexts, from casual conversation to formal writing, where you need to express a nuanced comparison. However, ensure you clarify how things are different for clarity.