differ in size

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "differ in size" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe when two or more objects, animals, or other entities have different dimensions. For example, "The backpacks available at the store differ in size, making it easy to find one that fits your needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Probes differ in size by means of spacers of different length that are probe-specific.

Human Mutation

The variants differ in size, with the largest almost twice as big as the smallest.

The New York Times - Science

But by the time the children were 15, the caudate did not differ in size between the two groups.

The New York Times

The 230 chalets differ in size, layout and decor, but each comes with its own picket fence and garden.

The Guardian - Travel

Though the various blue stars (Amsonias) differ in size and leaf form, each is a golden presence in fall gardens.

The New York Times - Style

The encoded rRNAs differ in size, being distinguished as either large or small.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Although social movements differ in size, they are all essentially collective.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Similar figures, on the other hand, have the same shape but may differ in size.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1995 another Netherlands study suggested that a region of the hypothalmus may differ in size in transsexuals from ordinary males and females.

The New York Times - Health

Unlike Europe, the countries of this region differ in size, development stage and political system, so economic integration cannot be achieved over the short term.

The New York Times

Although they differ in size and location, O+A-designed offices do not tend to have an abundance of high-tech gadgets.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing multiple items, clearly specify which items "differ in size" for clarity. For example, instead of saying "the objects differ in size", say "the red and blue objects differ in size".

Common error

Avoid using "differ in size" without specifying what is being compared. Saying "sizes differ" is less informative than stating "the sizes of the two samples differ significantly."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "differ in size" functions primarily as a descriptive element, highlighting variations in the physical dimensions of objects or entities. As noted by Ludwig, it is a common and acceptable phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

28%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "differ in size" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe variations in the physical dimensions of objects or entities. Ludwig's analysis confirms its common usage across diverse contexts, ranging from scientific research to everyday news. As Ludwig highlights, this expression functions as a descriptive element, focusing on dimensional differences. The phrase is primarily found in scientific and news-related content and its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Related phrases include ""vary in size"", and "range in size". To ensure clarity, specify the objects being compared, and avoid vague statements. In essence, "differ in size" is a reliable and effective way to convey dimensional discrepancies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vary in size

Replaces "differ" with "vary", emphasizing a range of sizes.

range in size

Focuses on the spectrum of sizes present.

diverge in size

Uses "diverge" to suggest a separation or distinction in size.

fluctuate in size

Indicates that sizes are not fixed and may change.

are not uniform in size

Emphasizes the lack of consistency in size.

show size variations

Highlights the presence of different sizes within a group.

display size differences

Focuses on the observable differences in size.

exhibit size discrepancies

Uses "discrepancies" to point out inconsistencies in size.

contrast in size

Suggests a noticeable difference in size when compared.

are of different magnitudes

Emphasizes the scale of the size differences.

FAQs

What does it mean when things "differ in size"?

When objects or entities "differ in size", it means they have variations in their physical dimensions. This could refer to length, width, height, or any other measurement that determines physical scale.

How can I use "differ in size" in a sentence?

You can use "differ in size" to describe any situation where objects aren't the same dimension. For example: "The two paintings "vary in size", with one being significantly larger than the other."

What's a formal way to say things "differ in size"?

In more formal contexts, you could say the items "exhibit size discrepancies" or "are not uniform in size". These phrases convey a similar meaning with a more elevated tone.

Is it correct to say items "differ by size"?

While "differ by size" is understandable, "differ in size" is the more common and grammatically standard phrasing. "Differ by size" might be used when specifying the amount of difference, such as "they differ by 2 inches in size".