differences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "differences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing distinctions or variations between two or more items, concepts, or individuals. Example: "The differences between the two proposals highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is also a growing sense that differences between different separatist militias could lead to confrontation.

The Guardian

However, as Jane Martinson writes: "campaigners to end violence against women advised caution in reporting country-wide differences, given different levels of awareness of what constitutes abuse".

The Guardian

But the alliance, whose members have widely differing political ideologies, is already showing cracks as long-standing differences emerge.

The Guardian

First, it tends to be calculated on marginal differences: as in, does a class of 32 pupils really achieve differently from one of 28?

The Guardian

But there are differences.

The New York Times

But there are important differences.

The New York Times - Health

However, they were unable to close a comprehensive deal because of differences between the DUP and pro-Good Friday agreement parties over changes to the political institution.

The Guardian

It has always been tricky for Messrs Cameron and Clegg to present themselves as united in an endeavour to put the country right while at the same advertising their differences in order to reassure the blue and yellow tribes that they are not betraying their respective party's fundamental beliefs.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even as polls show the former secretary of state trouncing other Democratic contenders in a hypothetical primary, O'Malley has begun citing differences between him and Clinton on issues such as the minimum wage, social security benefits and a major trade deal brokered by the Obama administration that has irked progressives.

The Guardian

We weren't asked specifically to look at the differences, but we did it because we could via the smart energy monitor.

The Guardian

"You always have these US-European differences," said a former senior EU foreign policy strategist.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "differences" to introduce a nuanced comparison, highlighting both distinctions and similarities for a balanced perspective.

Common error

Avoid stating that "differences exist" without specifying what those "differences" are. General statements lack clarity and impact; provide specific details to support your claim.

Linguistic Context

The noun "differences" functions primarily to indicate points of unlikeness or distinction between two or more entities. This grammatical role is supported by Ludwig's examples, showcasing its use in various contexts to highlight variations and distinctions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

13%

Less common in

Opinion

7%

Tech

4%

Sport

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "differences" functions as a noun to highlight distinctions and variations between entities, ideas, or situations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and versatility across diverse contexts. Its primary communicative purpose is to compare and contrast, offering clarity and insight into distinguishing features. The term is commonly used in professional, academic, and journalistic writing, although can be considered neutral. To enhance your writing, be specific when outlining "differences", and avoid overgeneralizations by providing clear examples and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discrepancies

Focuses on inconsistencies or contradictions between facts or claims.

variations

Emphasizes slight changes or deviations from a standard.

distinctions

Highlights clear and recognizable differences between items or concepts.

divergences

Suggests a branching out or moving away from a common point or path.

contrasts

Emphasizes the act of comparing two things to highlight their differences.

disparities

Points out significant inequalities or gaps between things.

inconsistencies

Highlights a lack of uniformity or logical coherence.

dissimilarities

Directly states the lack of similarity between things.

points of contention

Focuses on specific disagreements or areas of conflict.

matters of debate

Emphasizes that the differences are subject to discussion and argument.

FAQs

How do I use "differences" in a sentence?

Use "differences" to highlight distinctions between items, ideas, or groups. For example, "The main "distinction" between the two approaches lies in their methodology."

What are some alternatives to using "differences"?

Depending on the context, you can use words like "variations", "discrepancies", or "distinctions" to replace "differences".

Which is correct, "difference between" or "difference of"?

Both "difference between" and "difference of" are correct but used in slightly different contexts. "Difference between" is used to compare two or more distinct entities (e.g., "the difference between cats and dogs"), while "difference of" is used to describe a specific instance of differing opinions or values (e.g., "a difference of opinion").

What's the nuance between "differences" and "disagreements"?

"Differences" broadly refers to any point of unlikeness or distinction, while "disagreements" specifically implies a conflict of opinion or a lack of consensus.