but with one difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but with one difference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that there is a distinction or variation between two similar things or situations. Example: "I have two cars, but with one difference: one is electric, and the other runs on gasoline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The Murdoch division, as it were, but with one difference.

The Guardian

Like Dana Andrews in this kind of movie seventy years ago, he's an ideal leader, decisive and stoical, but with one difference: out of sight, kneeling by the side of a tank, he falls apart.

The New Yorker

For CaliciNet and the updated systematic review data, results were similar to those of FBVE/Noronet and ESR-EpiSurv but with one difference (i.e., that mixed outbreaks could not be statistically distinguished as a separate group in the CaliciNet dataset).

Emerging Infectious Diseases

In the first stage, we use the same construction method which is used for the sorted input in the previous section but with one difference: we ignore the intervals for internal nodes since the identification numbers for the strings are not known.

BioMed Research International

Picture the same test chamber, but with one difference: the walls, floors and ceiling by the exit are not "portal-able".

The New York Times - Arts

I found the city much like I remembered, a walkable, antipodean version of Seattle, but with one difference: then, the locals had to point to the changes as evidence of how cool Wellington was becoming; now, the city's atmosphere speaks for itself — "Cool-with-a-capital-C," according to the Lonely Planet list.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

With one difference: nothing is signposted.

The Guardian

Business as usual, with one difference: we are not happy".

The Guardian - Sport

Time-lapse films work the same way, with one difference.

Huffington Post

With one difference: These three are really, really angry about everything.

Vice

"I grew up white working class, with one difference," she said.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but with one difference" to clearly signal a notable distinction after establishing a similarity, helping your audience quickly grasp the specific point of divergence.

Common error

Avoid using "but with one difference" if the difference is insignificant or irrelevant. Ensure the distinction genuinely impacts the comparison being made.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but with one difference" functions as a transitional phrase that introduces a contrast or distinction following a statement of similarity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s perfectly acceptable English. It sets up an expectation that a specific point of divergence will be identified.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but with one difference" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to introduce a notable distinction following a statement of similarity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Its primary function is to guide the audience to focus on a specific point of divergence, making it particularly useful in explanations, comparisons, and analyses across various contexts. Ludwig examples show it frequently appears in news, science, and formal communication, making it a widely accepted phrase for both formal and informal use. When writing, always ensure that the "one difference" is clearly stated and genuinely impacts the overall comparison to ensure clarity and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with a single variation

Emphasizes the presence of just one variation.

except for one key distinction

Highlights the importance of the single distinction.

yet there's a single exception

Points out the only element that doesn't conform.

although a detail sets it apart

Focuses on a specific detail that differentiates.

the sole distinguishing factor being

Formally identifies the unique characteristic.

save for one notable feature

Emphasizes one characteristic feature being different.

barring one significant modification

Underlines the existence of one important change.

but a subtle change exists

Highlights the change or difference as subtle.

apart from a solitary contrast

Highlights the contrast as being the only difference.

however there's a twist

Informally introduces a surprising element.

FAQs

How can I use "but with one difference" in a sentence?

Use "but with one difference" to highlight a key distinction between two similar things. For example: "These two laptops are identical in almost every aspect, but with one difference: this one has a longer battery life."

What are some alternatives to "but with one difference"?

You can use alternatives like "except for one key distinction", "with a single variation", or "the sole distinguishing factor being" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state the "one difference" after using the phrase?

Yes, for clarity, it's best to immediately follow "but with one difference" with a clear statement of what that difference is. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the intended comparison.

Can I use "but with one difference" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase is suitable for both formal and informal writing. Its straightforward nature makes it a clear and effective way to highlight distinctions in various contexts.