different from last

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "different from last" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing something to a previous instance or version, indicating a change or distinction. Example: "The results of this experiment are different from last, showing significant improvement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Very different from last night.

The Guardian - Books

It's a little different from last time.

University of California, Berkeley

What's different from last season is the Nets' financial situation.

The New York Times - Sports

It's important to bring something different from last season".

The Guardian - Sport

Suffice to say, it wasn't too different from last time.

Independent

"We have to be sure that the rules of engagement are different from last time".

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The five choreographers, different from last year, performed all around the fort and, for the last dance, inside its courtyard.

The New York Times - Arts

What's different from last year?

The New York Times

"Both looks are very different from last year," she said.

The New York Times

"It is completely different from last year's pattern.

The New York Times

"It feels very different from last year," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "different from last", ensure the context clearly identifies what "last" refers to. For example, specify "last week", "last year", or "last time" to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "different from last" without specifying the period or event you're comparing to. For instance, saying "the weather is different from last" is vague. Instead, specify "different from last summer" or "different from last week".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "different from last" functions as an adjectival phrase used to describe a noun by comparing it to a previous state or instance. It signifies a contrast or change over time. According to Ludwig AI, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "different from last" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a contrast with a previous occurrence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While versatile, clarity is crucial: always specify the timeframe (e.g., "last week", "last year") to avoid ambiguity. Although suitable for diverse registers, consider more formal alternatives like "distinct from the former" in professional settings. Primarily found in News & Media contexts, ensure precise usage across all communication to convey intended meaning effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not the same as before

This option is more informal and straightforward in expressing the difference.

changed since the last time

This alternative directly points out the change that has occurred since a prior instance.

unlike previous

This alternative uses a single word to convey the difference, offering a more concise option.

distinct from the former

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes a clear distinction.

contrasting with the past

This phrase is more formal, highlighting the element of contrast relative to a prior time.

a far cry from what used to be

This is an idiomatic expression indicating a significant and noticeable difference.

a departure from what was

This suggests a more significant change or deviation from a previous state.

divergent from what preceded it

Highly formal alternative, suggesting a branching off or deviation.

an evolution from what it was

This phrase focuses on the change as a progression or development.

bears no resemblance to the past

Emphasizes the lack of similarity, indicating a complete transformation.

FAQs

How can I use "different from last" in a sentence?

You can use "different from last" to compare something to a previous instance. For example, "This year's results are "different from last" year's, showing significant improvement".

What's a more formal way to say "different from last"?

More formal alternatives include "distinct from the former" or "contrasting with the past", depending on the context.

What can I say instead of "different from last" in casual conversation?

In casual conversation, you could say "not the same as before" or "changed since the last time".

Is it always necessary to specify what "last" refers to when using "different from last"?

Yes, it's best practice to specify what "last" refers to (e.g., "last week", "last year") to avoid ambiguity and ensure clarity in your writing. Without specification the reader may not understand the sentence or its implication.