different in nature

USAGE SUMMARY

"different in nature" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is an idiomatic expression used to describe two or more entities that are distinct from one another in character, quality, or form. Example: The characteristics of these two plants are different in nature - the first is evergreen while the second is deciduous.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Visual and olfactory signals are very different in nature and are affected differently by environmental factors.

Plosone

Overall, prevalence of maternal complaints after symphysiotomy and CS do not differ much, though they are somewhat different in nature.

Plosone

This is most likely due to a difference in absorption flattening because the particles are different in nature.

BMC Biotechnology

"[Masopust] showed that the natural state of the animals is very different in nature or a pet store than it is in a [lab]," Virgin says.

Science Magazine

Participating loans and venture capital are different in nature.

Revista Europea de Dirección y Economía de la Empresa

That's not counting Secret Cinema events, which are fundamentally different in nature.

The Guardian - Film

Although they are used as interchangeably in colloquial practice, they are fundamentally different in nature.

Columbia University

"This recession is different in nature from earlier downturns in the post-war period.

The Economist

Perhaps by then the Trust's money-making schemes, if not its priorities, will be radically different in nature.

The Guardian

McEwan has taken a lot longer to record his response – and it is totally different in nature.

The Guardian - Arts

As most doctors will tell you, each metastatic or "late-stage" cancer is very different in nature.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "different in nature", ensure that the contrast you are drawing is clear and specific. Provide context to highlight exactly how the items being compared diverge, such as in their properties, characteristics, or origins.

Common error

Avoid using "different in nature" as a vague statement. Instead of just saying two things are "different in nature", elaborate on the specific aspects that make them distinct. For example, instead of "the two approaches are different in nature", specify that "the two approaches are different in nature, one being proactive and the other reactive."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "different in nature" functions as a descriptive element, typically modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a fundamental dissimilarity between two or more entities. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and can be used in written English. It emphasizes that the difference is intrinsic, not superficial.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

37%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "different in nature" is a versatile and frequently used expression to denote fundamental dissimilarities between entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and appropriate for written English. Its usage spans across diverse contexts, including science, news media, and academia, indicating its broad applicability. While "different in nature" is suitable for many settings, it’s crucial to provide context when using this phrase to ensure clarity. Alternatives such as "distinct in character" or "dissimilar in essence" can add nuanced meanings to your writing. Ultimately, "different in nature" remains a valuable tool for expressing significant distinctions, provided it is used with precision and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinct in character

This alternative emphasizes the unique qualities and attributes that set something apart.

dissimilar in essence

This alternative highlights that the fundamental qualities or core aspects are not alike.

of a different kind

This alternative suggests a difference in type or category.

unrelated in form

This alternative focuses on the structural or external differences between entities.

unlike in constitution

This emphasizes differences in the makeup or composition of something.

contrasting in quality

This alternative highlights the differences in the standard or grade of something.

divergent in property

This implies variations in the characteristics or attributes something possesses.

varied in type

This highlights the diversity and range of different kinds.

not of the same ilk

This suggests a difference in class or category, often implying a negative connotation.

bearing no resemblance

This suggests a lack of similarity in appearance or qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "different in nature" in a sentence?

You can use "different in nature" to highlight fundamental distinctions between two or more things. For instance, "Although both processes involve chemical reactions, they are "different in nature" because one requires a catalyst and the other does not."

What are some alternatives to saying "different in nature"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "distinct in character", "dissimilar in essence", or "of a different kind" to convey the idea that two things are fundamentally unalike.

Is it better to say "different in nature" or "different by nature"?

"Different in nature" is generally preferred when emphasizing inherent or fundamental distinctions. "Different by nature" is less common. Using ""different in nature"" suggests a more intrinsic and less easily altered difference.

What's the difference between "different in nature" and "similar in nature"?

"Different in nature" indicates that two or more things have fundamental distinctions, while "similar in nature" suggests they share key characteristics or underlying qualities. The terms are antonyms, highlighting opposite ends of a spectrum of comparison.