clear difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clear difference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the stark contrast between two things. For example, "The clear difference between the tastes of sweet and sour is remarkable."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A clear difference in the extent of bone ingrowth was determined for the different scaffold types.

Biomaterials

There's a clear difference with their performance.

Harvard Business Review

No clear difference in ADHD stigma between cultures was found.

Princeton University

I saw a clear difference in only one use.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I have noted a clear difference in the critics.

The Guardian - Books

There is a clear difference between these two coaches.

Independent

They were both very intelligent, cultured women but there was a clear difference in their personalities".

The New York Times

One clear difference emerged from their study: the attention given to the appearance of women scientists.

The Guardian

Then again, there's a clear difference between sharing a sense of triumph and bragging.

The Guardian - Opinion

The saga also spotlights a clear difference between Barack Obama and John McCain.

The New York Times

Polls on Friday showed no clear difference between the two sides.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clear difference" to emphasize a point of divergence or contrast when comparing two or more subjects. This phrase is most effective when the distinction is easily perceivable.

Common error

Avoid using "clear difference" when the contrast is already inherently obvious. Instead, focus on the implications or significance of the difference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clear difference" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "clear" modifies the noun "difference". This phrase is used to emphasize a readily distinguishable contrast between two or more entities or concepts, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clear difference" is a common and grammatically sound way to emphasize a readily observable distinction. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal business settings. To use this phrase effectively, ensure the contrast you are highlighting is genuinely evident and significant. Avoid using it when the difference is trivial or already implied. Consider alternatives like "distinct contrast" or "noticeable distinction" for nuanced expression. Keep in mind the neutral register of this phrase, making it suitable for a wide range of communication needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unmistakable difference

Implies that the difference is impossible to misinterpret.

distinct contrast

Emphasizes a striking dissimilarity.

readily apparent difference

Emphasizes that the difference is immediately visible or understood.

noticeable distinction

Highlights the ease with which the difference can be observed.

pronounced contrast

Emphasizes the strength and visibility of the difference.

significant variation

Indicates the importance or impact of the difference.

evident disparity

Focuses on the inequality or imbalance between the subjects.

palpable distinction

Highlights a difference that is easily perceived.

marked divergence

Suggests a significant deviation or separation.

obvious variation

Highlights that the differences are readily apparent.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "clear difference" in a sentence?

Use "clear difference" to highlight a readily observable distinction between two or more things. For example, "There's a "clear difference" between their approaches to the problem."

What are some alternatives to "clear difference"?

You can use alternatives such as "distinct contrast", "noticeable distinction", or "evident disparity" to express a similar idea.

Is there a subtle difference between "clear difference" and "obvious difference"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "clear difference" might suggest a distinction that is easily understood, whereas "obvious difference" implies a difference that is easily seen or noticed. They are largely interchangeable, but context can favor one over the other.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "clear difference"?

Avoid using "clear difference" when the distinction being made is already self-evident or trivial. In such cases, using the phrase can be redundant and weaken your writing.