different from the other

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "different from the other" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing one item or person to another, highlighting a distinction. Example: "This painting is different from the other pieces in the gallery, showcasing a unique style."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was different from the other villagers.

The New Yorker

He was different from the other fathers.

The New Yorker

What makes one different from the other?

The New York Times

Each one is completely different from the other.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Nevertheless, they are quite different from the other two children.

The New Yorker

This is different from the other learned professions.

The New York Times

"This was different from the other four matches," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

"He is really very different from the other candidates".

The Guardian

"And mine is radically different from the other guys.

The Guardian - Music

But Tyree is different from the other new Giants.

The New York Times - Sports

"This championship is different from the other majors.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "different from the other", ensure the context clearly identifies the group being compared. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens the comparison.

Common error

Avoid using "different than" or "different to" when "different from" is generally preferred, especially in formal writing. Although, the former is more common in American English.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "different from the other" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating a distinction or dissimilarity between one entity and a group. As Ludwig examples show, this highlights unique qualities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "different from the other" is a common and grammatically sound way to express distinction, as validated by Ludwig. It's most frequently used in news and media but also appears in scientific and formal writing. To ensure clarity, identify the group you're comparing against. While "different than" is acceptable, especially in American English, "different from" is generally preferred in formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unlike the others

Highlights a clear contrast, often implying a significant difference.

differs from the rest

A more concise way of stating a distinction from a group.

distinct from the rest

Emphasizes uniqueness by contrasting with a larger, undefined group.

set apart from the others

Implies a deliberate act or quality that distinguishes something.

stands out from the others

Indicates prominence or noticeable difference.

dissimilar to the others

Formally indicates a lack of resemblance or similarity.

contrasts with the others

Highlights opposition or difference when compared directly.

divergent from the others

Suggests a deviation or branching off from a common path or characteristic.

a cut above the rest

Idiomatically expresses superiority or higher quality.

bears no resemblance to the others

Emphasizes a complete lack of similarity.

FAQs

How do I use "different from the other" in a sentence?

Use "different from the other" to highlight a distinction between one thing and a group of others. For example, "This apple is different from the other apples in the basket because it's red."

What can I say instead of "different from the other"?

You can use alternatives like "unlike the others", "distinct from the rest", or "dissimilar to the others" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "different from the other" or "different than the other"?

"Different from the other" is generally preferred, especially in formal writing. "Different than the other" is also acceptable and common, especially in American English.

What's the difference between "different from the other" and "different to the other"?

"Different from the other" is the most widely accepted form. "Different to the other" is common in British English, but less common in American English. "Different from" is generally preferred.