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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
differ by a feature of
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "differ by a feature of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing how two or more items or concepts are distinct based on a specific characteristic or attribute. Example: "The two models differ by a feature of battery life, with one lasting significantly longer than the other."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
Test and comparison arrays are either identical, or differ by a feature of one item (e.g. colour, location).
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
The two genomes presented in domesticated peanut differ by one striking feature: one of the genomes (A) has a pair of chromosomes, called A, which is conspicuously smaller than the other chromosomes, while the other genome lacks this small chromosome [ 25].
Science
Although both groups have a common architectural structure [ 15, 16], they differ by several features, as depicted in the alignment of representative A- and B-RIFIN sequences (Fig. 1A) and schematically (Fig. 1B).
Science
Further support for this polarization hypothesis is given by comparing the turnover rates of peptide substrates in Table 1 that differ by only a single feature.
Science
Breast cancer consists of a variety of tumours, which differ by their morphological features, molecular characteristics and outcome.
Science
The presence of differing cell morphologies may be a feature of cell-cell communication.
Indeed, in most low-income settings, the remuneration of health workers is not composed of a single type of payment but includes combinations of payment mechanisms, which differ by source of funding, contract agreements, features such as regularity and inclusion of "deferred" compensation (pensions), and task requirements.
Science
Therefore, even though the overall frequency of progression may not differ significantly between AAs and Caucasians, disease progression may differ by race because of variations in baseline features of the disease.
–How does a breaking news story differ from a feature story?
News & Media
Indeed, Ig-seq data contain a large number of sequences differing by very few mismatches or indels, and feature the extremely uneven coverage of various antibodies by reads (since abundances of antibodies differ by orders of magnitudes).
Science
Car insurance prices can differ by thousands of dollars just within a single city.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "differ by a feature of", ensure the feature is clearly defined and relevant to the comparison being made. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens the analysis.
Common error
Avoid stating that two things "differ by a feature of" without specifying what that feature is. For example, instead of saying "These cars differ by a feature of performance", specify "These cars differ by a feature of fuel efficiency."
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "differ by a feature of" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating a specific point of divergence or distinction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English and highlights a particular characteristic that sets two or more items apart.
Frequent in
Science
35%
News & Media
30%
Encyclopedias
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
10%
Wiki
5%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "differ by a feature of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to highlight specific differences between entities. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and the examples demonstrate its relevance across various contexts, including science, news, and encyclopedias. The phrase functions to clearly articulate these distinctions, making it useful in analytical writing. While semantically similar alternatives like "vary in one aspect" and "distinguished by a characteristic" exist, "differ by a feature of" provides a specific emphasis. When employing this phrase, clarity and specificity are key to avoiding vagueness.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
vary in one aspect
Focuses on the variation in a single, specific aspect rather than a general feature.
distinguished by a characteristic
Highlights the distinguishing aspect that sets the subjects apart.
contrast in a trait
Emphasizes the contrasting nature of a specific trait.
differ in terms of attribute
Presents the difference as a matter of varying attributes.
set apart by a quality
Highlights the quality that makes something unique or distinct.
marked by a distinction
Focuses on the observable distinction that differentiates the subjects.
separate due to a property
Indicates that the separation or difference arises from a particular property.
diverge in a respect
Suggests a branching out or deviation in a specific respect.
show differences in a trait
Directly points out the presence of differences in a specified trait.
present a unique characteristic
Emphasizes that each subject has a unique characteristic that sets them apart.
FAQs
How can I use "differ by a feature of" in a sentence?
Use "differ by a feature of" to highlight specific characteristics that distinguish items, such as "The two models "differ by a feature of" battery life."
What are some alternatives to "differ by a feature of"?
You can use alternatives like "vary in one aspect", "distinguished by a characteristic", or "contrast in a trait" depending on the nuance you want to convey.
Is it better to say "differ in a feature" or "differ by a feature of"?
"Differ by a feature of" is generally more precise and grammatically sound, as it clearly indicates the specific characteristic causing the difference. "Differ in a feature" is less common and can sound awkward.
What's the difference between "differ by a feature of" and "have a different feature"?
"Differ by a feature of" highlights a specific difference between two or more items, whereas "have a different feature" simply states that a difference exists without emphasizing the comparison.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested