completely different from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "completely different from" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that two things or people are not similar at all, or to emphasize how different they are. For example, "Her opinion on the matter was completely different from mine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's completely different from Canseco.

The New York Times - Sports

It's completely different from Mexico.

The New York Times - Sports

He was completely different from me.

The Guardian - Books

"He was completely different from a dog," she said.

The New York Times - Science

It's completely different from what you would see today".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Becoming chancellor is completely different from any other appointment.

The Guardian

One piece is completely different from the rest.

The New York Times - Arts

"It is completely different from last year's pattern.

The New York Times

Each one is completely different from the other.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It's completely different from what it's like now" in midafternoon.

The New York Times

"It's completely different from anything I have done before.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "completely different from", ensure that the context clearly establishes what two things are being compared to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "This is completely different", specify "This approach is completely different from the previous one".

Common error

Avoid using "different than" in formal writing; "different from" is the preferred and more grammatically sound choice. Although "different than" is common in American English, sticking to "different from" ensures clarity and adherence to standard English conventions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "completely different from" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. Ludwig examples show it being used to strongly emphasize the dissimilarity between two subjects. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "completely different from" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to highlight significant dissimilarities between two subjects. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, it is commonly found in news, scientific and academic contexts. While "different than" is sometimes used, "completely different from" remains the more universally accepted and formal option. To ensure clarity, always specify what two things are being compared. When other alternatives like "entirely unlike" or "radically divergent from" are available, choosing the most fitting one will allow more precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utterly dissimilar to

Emphasizes the lack of similarity, focusing on the absence of common traits or characteristics.

entirely unlike

Highlights the absence of any resemblance or shared qualities between the subjects.

distinctly contrasting with

Focuses on the sharp differences and clear opposition between the subjects being compared.

radically divergent from

Suggests a fundamental difference in direction, development, or nature.

poles apart from

Emphasizes the extreme opposition and distance between the subjects.

bearing no resemblance to

Stresses the complete lack of similarity in appearance, form, or nature.

worlds away from

Indicates a vast difference in experience, context, or nature.

as different as night and day from

Uses a common idiom to emphasize the obvious and stark contrast between the subjects.

a far cry from

Highlights how much something deviates or falls short of a previous state or expectation.

in stark contrast to

Indicates a very noticeable and often surprising difference.

FAQs

How can I use "completely different from" in a sentence?

Use "completely different from" to emphasize a strong contrast between two things. For example, "Her management style is "completely different from" her predecessor's".

What are some alternatives to "completely different from"?

Alternatives include "utterly dissimilar to", "entirely unlike", or "radically divergent from". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "completely different than"?

While "different than" is sometimes used, especially in American English, "completely different from" is generally considered more grammatically correct and is preferred in formal writing. Use "completely different from" for broader acceptance.

How does "completely different from" compare to "slightly different from"?

"Completely different from" indicates a major dissimilarity, while "slightly different from" suggests only minor variations. The choice depends on the degree of contrast you wish to express. If things are almost the same, prefer "slightly different from".