differ in that

USAGE SUMMARY

"differ in that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate a particular difference between two things. For example, you could say, "The two restaurants differ in that one offers a buffet and the other does not."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

While both indicators are based on declining job markets, they differ in that each comes from a different survey conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The New York Times

These groups differ in that they are usually facilitated by therapists and often draw from different ways of conceptualizing partner addiction.

Huffington Post

We differ in that approach.

The Guardian

But Jed and I really differ in that way.

The New York Times - Travel

However, these eyes differ in that they have lenses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They differ in that Blue Fortune is a sterile hybrid, created by crossing A. foeniculum with the Asian A. rugosa.

The New York Times

Quarks and leptons differ in that only the former exchange gluons, allowing them to interact via the strong force.

The New York Times - Science

Split caps differ in that they have various types of shareholder.

The Economist

They receive the same wages and rations as ordinary state workers, but differ in that they can profit via the secret siphoning off of state resources.

The Guardian

Rickettsiae microorganisms that resemble bacteria but differ in that they are intracellular parasites that reproduce inside cells.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Top of the Lake" and other examples differ in that they are being expressly showcased as television.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "differ in that", ensure that the items being compared are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Apples and oranges differ in that apples are typically red or green, while oranges are orange."

Common error

Avoid using "differ in that" for trivial or obvious differences. Reserve it for more substantive distinctions. For instance, instead of saying "Cars and bicycles differ in that one has an engine", which is self-evident, focus on more nuanced comparisons.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "differ in that" functions as a connector, specifically to introduce a clause that explains a particular difference between two or more subjects. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and commonly used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "differ in that" is a grammatically correct and highly versatile phrase used to highlight specific distinctions between two or more subjects. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. Predominantly found in science, news, and encyclopedia contexts, it maintains a neutral register, making it appropriate for diverse audiences. When using "differ in that", ensure clarity in your comparisons and avoid trivial differences to maximize its effectiveness. For alternative phrasing, consider "are distinct in that", "vary because", or "contrast in that" to add nuanced variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are distinct in that

Emphasizes a clear and recognizable separation or difference between items.

are distinguishable in that

Highlights the capacity to tell the items apart based on specific criteria.

contrast in that

Focuses on the differences when compared directly.

vary because

Suggests that the variation is caused by a specific reason or condition.

differ on the grounds that

Indicates a formal or legalistic reason for the difference.

diverge because

Implies a separation or moving apart in a specific aspect.

show a distinction in that

Highlights that the difference is visible or apparent.

the difference resides in

Indicates where the essential or fundamental difference is located.

are not the same since

Presents a straightforward declaration of difference with a causal connection.

part ways in that

Suggests a divergence or separation in terms of approach or characteristics.

FAQs

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

Use "differ in that" to highlight a specific distinction between two subjects. For example, "Dogs and cats "differ in that" dogs are generally more social while cats are often more independent."

What's a good alternative to "differ in that"?

Alternatives include "are distinct in that", "vary because", or "contrast in that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "differs in that"?

Yes, "differs in that" is grammatically correct when referring to a singular subject. For example, "This model differs in that it includes additional features."

What is the difference between "differ in that" and "differ from"?

"Differ in that" emphasizes a specific point of difference, while "differ from" simply indicates a general difference. For example, "They "differ in that" one is pleasure in something good whereas the other is pleasure in something bad", versus "They differ from each other."