defies comparison with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defies comparison with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express that something is so unique or exceptional that it cannot be compared to anything else. Example: "Her talent in painting defies comparison with any other artist in the gallery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

In the most recent edition of their lounge act, which defies comparison with any other, Justin Bond (Kiki) and Kenny Mellman (Herb) are telling it like it was.

The New York Times

"The artist himself is like the mud-soaked soccer player; for him it is the game, even more than the victory, that brings consummate rapture and defies comparison with worldly success".

The Economist

It is a luxury coupe that defies comparison with other luxury coupes.

BBC

But the web has shown itself to have a reach and impact which defies comparison with earlier communications technology.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

By John Bainbridge The wall that divides Berlin is hard to visualize, because it defies comparison.

The New Yorker

At other points, From Kinshasa defies comparison, because it doesn't really sound like anything else.

The Guardian - Music

The wall that divides Berlin is hard to visualize, because it defies comparison.

The New Yorker

A cross between old-school blues-jazz divas like Billie Holiday, Nina Simone and Betty Davis and contemporary R&B influences like Tina Turner, Al Green, Stevie Wonder and Sly Stone (with a bit of Janis Joplin thrown in), Ms. Gray both demands and defies comparisons.

The New York Times

On the one hand, the Holocaust is seen as a unique event, defying comparison.

The New York Times - Arts

Biyombo said his game defied comparisons.

The New York Times

Its system of self-management and decentralisation defies accurate comparison.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "defies comparison with" when you want to emphasize the unique qualities of something, suggesting that it is so distinct that standard comparisons are inadequate or misleading.

Common error

Avoid using "defies comparison with" for everyday situations where simple comparisons suffice. Reserve it for truly exceptional cases to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defies comparison with" functions as a qualifier, emphasizing that the subject is so unique that it is impossible to draw meaningful parallels with other things. As Ludwig suggests, it expresses a sense of unparalleled distinction, signaling that traditional methods of comparison are inadequate.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "defies comparison with" serves to underscore the uniqueness of a subject, suggesting its qualities are so exceptional that it cannot be adequately compared to anything else. As Ludwig confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in formal contexts, such as news, academic writing, and professional communications. While the phrase isn't exceedingly common, its strategic use can add significant emphasis and distinction. When employing this phrase, ensure the subject truly warrants such a bold statement to avoid diluting its impact. Remember, while alternatives such as "is unmatched by" and "is beyond compare to" exist, the choice should align with the desired tone and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is beyond compare to

Highlights the unmatched quality or characteristic of something.

is unparalleled to

Stresses the lack of similar or equal counterparts.

is unmatched by

Focuses on the superior level or degree of something.

is in a league of its own compared to

Indicates that something is significantly better or different.

stands alone in relation to

Emphasizes the solitary or unique position of something.

has no equal when set against

Points out the unmatched quality when contrasted with others.

transcends any association with

Highlights the exceeding nature of something, going beyond typical associations.

is without precedent compared to

Suggests that there's no prior example or occurrence similar to it.

surpasses any likeness with

Underlines the superior nature, exceeding resemblances.

is singular when considered with

Indicates a unique, distinct quality.

FAQs

How to use "defies comparison with" in a sentence?

Use "defies comparison with" to highlight the unique qualities of something, suggesting it's so exceptional that standard comparisons are insufficient. For instance, "The artist's innovative style "defies comparison with" any contemporary works".

What can I say instead of "defies comparison with"?

You can use alternatives like "is unmatched by", "is unparalleled to", or "is beyond compare to" depending on the context.

Is "defies comparison with" formal or informal?

"Defies comparison with" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, or news contexts. In informal settings, simpler alternatives might be preferred.

What's the difference between ""defies comparison with"" and "is similar to"?

"Defies comparison with" indicates something is so unique it cannot be adequately compared, while "is similar to" suggests resemblance or likeness.