different from the old

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "different from the old" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing something new to something that existed previously, highlighting the distinctions between the two. Example: "The new software is different from the old, offering more features and improved performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's different from the old Iraqi Army.

The New York Times

"It's very different from the old shirt.

The New York Times

RT is wildly different from the old Windows.

The New York Times

How are these different from the old pat-down procedure?

The New York Times

The menu is drastically different from the old days.

The New York Times

Yet for all its novelty, the new order seems little different from the old.

The New York Times

The new Russia is, in some ways, not so different from the old.

The New York Times

It's not as different from the old days as you might think".

The New York Times

But then, the last tenants of County Hall were very different from the old London County.

The Guardian

Ah, brave new world, you're not so different from the old one.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So different from the old abstract expressionists' crusty ideals of sincerity and good faith.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "different from the old", ensure that the comparison is clear and specific. Highlight the key aspects that distinguish the new from the old to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "different from the old" without specifying how the new is different. A general statement lacks impact. Instead, detail the specific improvements, changes, or distinctions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "different from the old" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It serves to modify a noun or pronoun by indicating how it differs from a previous version or state. Ludwig AI demonstrates the phrase's broad usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Wiki

5%

TechCrunch

4%

Less common in

Vice

1%

Huffington Post

1%

Forbes

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "different from the old" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to highlight distinctions between a new entity and its predecessor. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's most prevalent in news and media, lending it a neutral to slightly formal tone. When using this phrase, be sure to provide specific details about the differences to avoid vagueness and ensure clarity. Consider alternative phrases like "unlike the old" or "distinct from the previous" for stylistic variation. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate the contrasts and improvements that define the "new" in relation to the "old".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unlike the old

Focuses directly on the dissimilarity, offering a more concise alternative.

distinct from the old

Emphasizes a clear and easily recognizable difference.

dissimilar to the old

Highlights the lack of resemblance between the new and old.

a departure from the old

Stresses a change in direction or approach from what was previously done.

contrasting with the old

Presents the new as an opposite or significantly different entity.

bears no resemblance to the old

More emphatic; indicates no similarities exist.

represents a shift from the old

Focuses on the change or transition from a previous state.

an innovation compared to the old

Highlights the newness and improvement over the previous version.

a world apart from the old

Emphasizes a significant and vast difference.

a complete turnaround from the old

Indicates a reversal or radical change from what was before.

FAQs

How can I use "different from the old" in a sentence?

Use "different from the old" to highlight contrasts between a new version or state and its predecessor. For example, "The new model is "different from the old" in terms of fuel efficiency and design."

What's a more formal alternative to "different from the old"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "distinct from the previous" or "dissimilar to the former", which offer a similar meaning while maintaining a professional register.

Is it always necessary to specify how something is "different from the old"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the differences clarifies your meaning and strengthens your statement. Vague comparisons can weaken your message.

Can "different from the old" be used to describe abstract concepts as well as physical objects?

Yes, "different from the old" can effectively describe both tangible items and abstract ideas. For instance, "The new approach to management is "different from the old", emphasizing collaboration and employee empowerment."