different in size

USAGE SUMMARY

"different in size" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it in any context where you need to compare the size of two or more things. For example: "The two houses were quite different in size, with one much bigger than the other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"If the writer's association has two styles of units that are dramatically different in size, that difference should be reflected in the master deed," he said.

The New York Times

Although the two groups were different in size, there were no significant differences in the demographic data.

BMJ Open

The hospitals are very different in size, and serve areas that differ for age composition and distribution of diseases [ 15].

BMC Health Services Research

Brock is certainly different in size: 6 feet 7 inches and 295 pounds.

The New York Times - Sports

The two exhibitions, very different in size, have many aesthetic and personal links.

The New York Times - Arts

The six rooms are all very different in size but very tastefully furnished and decorated.

The Guardian - Travel

Even though the buildings are vastly different in size, each bears the same stamp, the same signature.

The New York Times

Question: These common North American mystery birds are strikingly different in size despite having the same colours and patterns.

The Guardian

The blastomeres may be either about equal or only slightly different in size.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But in the aftermath of the attacks on Sept. 11, this year's operation -- called "Balikatan" or "Shouldering the Load Together" -- is much different in size, scope and location.

The New York Times

He was a man after Bernie Ecclestone's own heart, although the two could hardly have been more different in size and style.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing sizes, ensure the objects being compared are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "different in size" relative to a known standard or another object.

Common error

Avoid using "different in size" without providing context or a reference point. Saying "these objects are different in size" is less effective than stating "these objects are different in size, with one being twice as large as the other".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "different in size" functions primarily as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to describe its dimensional characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in varied contexts. Examples show it describing the size differences between objects, groups, or even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

40%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "different in size" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase employed to denote distinctions in physical dimensions across various domains. As validated by Ludwig, this phrase is frequently encountered in scientific literature, news articles, and academic writing. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for a wide range of audiences. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to provide specific comparisons or reference points when using this phrase. While alternatives like "differently sized" exist, "different in size" remains a common and easily understood choice for expressing dimensional variance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

various in size

Focuses on the variety or diversity of sizes, implying multiple differences.

dissimilar in size

Emphasizes a lack of resemblance in size, suggesting a more distinct contrast.

divergent in size

Highlights a separation or deviation in size, implying a growing difference.

distinct in size

Focuses on clear and easily noticeable differences in size.

varying in size

Highlights the changing nature of size, suggesting inconsistency.

unequal in size

Directly states that the sizes are not the same, lacking nuance.

contrasting in size

Emphasizes a strong difference, creating a clear distinction between sizes.

different dimensions

Uses a more technical term, dimensions, to convey differences in size.

disparate in size

Emphasizes a significant and often unfair difference in size.

diverse in scale

Shifts the focus to scale, implying a broader perspective on size differences.

FAQs

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

You can use "different in size" to compare the dimensions of two or more objects, like: "The two paintings were "different in size", one being a large canvas and the other a small sketch".

What's a more formal way to say "different in size"?

In a more formal context, consider using "varying in dimensions" or "dissimilar in scale" to convey the same meaning as ""different in size"".

Is it correct to say "differently sized" instead of "different in size"?

Yes, "differently sized" is a valid and more concise alternative to ""different in size"". Both are grammatically correct.

What is the difference between "different in size" and "different sizes"?

"Different in size" is typically used when comparing specific objects or items, while "different sizes" is a more general statement about a variety of sizes available, for example "The shirts are "different in size"" vs "The shirts come in "different sizes"".