different from the past

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "different from the past" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is not the same as it was in the past. For example, "The situation today is very different from the past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a little different from the past.

The New York Times - Sports

"How is this different from the past?" he muttered.

The New York Times - Sports

Why is this day different from the past?

The Guardian - Business

D.R.: How is that different from the past?

The New Yorker

Is this really all that different from the past?

The New York Times

"That's the one distinguishing factor of why it's different from the past".

The New York Times - Sports

But Nadal will arrive equipped with a style and mentality different from the past.

The New York Times - Sports

"That speaks well for Bellevue's economic future, and that's very different from the past".

The New York Times

The problem is that the future is projected to be different from the past.

The New York Times

It signals that the authorities are seriously committed to making the future different from the past.

The Guardian - Business

If successful, Mr. Krzanich will create an Intel markedly different from the past.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "different from the past" to clearly indicate a shift or change over time. Providing specific examples of what has changed can strengthen your statement and make it more impactful.

Common error

Ensure that when using the phrase "different from the past", you provide context to clarify what specific aspects are different. A lack of clarity can make your statement less effective and potentially misleading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "different from the past" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used adjectivally to modify nouns or clauses. It indicates a state of being dissimilar to what occurred or existed previously. Ludwig confirms its proper grammatical structure and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "different from the past" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something has changed over time. Ludwig AI confirms this. It's frequently found in news and media, scientific publications, and formal business communications. When using this phrase, clarity is key; be sure to specify what exactly is "different". Alternatives include "unlike in the past" and "changed from before". While "different than" exists, "different from" is the preferred choice. By understanding its usage and context, you can effectively communicate change and contrast in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unlike in the past

Emphasizes dissimilarity rather than a simple difference.

changed from before

Highlights the alteration from a prior state.

not the same as it used to be

Focuses on the alteration from a prior state.

a departure from the past

Highlights an intentional shift or divergence.

distinct from earlier times

Emphasizes the uniqueness and separation from previous eras.

evolved from its origins

Focuses on the gradual development and change from an original form.

a new era compared to the old

Highlights the transition to a distinctly new period.

in contrast to what was

Emphasizes a direct opposition or difference.

a world away from what it once was

Highlights the significant distance or transformation from a former state.

transformed beyond recognition

Stresses a complete and dramatic alteration.

FAQs

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

You can use "different from the past" to highlight changes or contrasts between current and previous states. For example, "The company's strategy is now "different from the past", focusing on innovation rather than cost-cutting."

What are some alternatives to saying "different from the past"?

Alternatives include "unlike in the past", "changed from before", or "not the same as it used to be", each offering a slightly different nuance.

Is it better to say "different than the past" or "different from the past"?

While "different than" is sometimes used, "different from" is generally considered more grammatically correct and is more widely accepted, especially in formal writing. Always consider your audience and the desired level of formality.

What's the difference between "different from the past" and "a departure from the past"?

"Different from the past" simply states a change, while "a departure from the past" implies a more deliberate or significant shift or divergence from previous practices or conditions.