different time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'different time' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize that two situations happened at different points in time. An example sentence is: "I was in the same place, but at a different time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Its a different time".

The New Yorker

A different time.

The New York Times

It's a different time.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It's a different time now".

The New York Times

"Different time — fifteen years ago".

The New Yorker

"It's a very different time".

Independent

"I grew up in a different time.

The New York Times

"It is a different time," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

It was a very different time.

The New York Times

But 1958 was a different time.

The New York Times - Books

But it was a different time.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "different time", provide context to clarify which specific period you are referencing for better understanding.

Common error

Avoid mistaking "different time", which refers to a temporal distinction, with "difficult time", which describes a challenging period. Ensure your word choice accurately reflects your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "different time" functions as an adjective-noun combination, modifying a noun to specify a particular temporal context. It's used to distinguish one period or moment from another. Ludwig examples show it highlighting contrasts between eras or situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "different time" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to contrast two distinct periods. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to highlight changes and distinctions between eras. To enhance your writing, use it to draw clear comparisons and avoid confusing it with "difficult time". Consider alternatives like "distinct time" or "another era" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinct time

Uses "distinct" instead of "different", emphasizing the separate nature of the time period.

changed times

Highlights the alteration in circumstances over time.

another era

Replaces "time" with "era", suggesting a broader historical period.

a previous period

Focuses on the sequential aspect, indicating a time that came before.

a bygone age

Emphasizes that the time is in the past, using more evocative language.

an earlier epoch

Similar to "another era" but with a more formal and historical tone.

things have changed

An expression highlighting that the actual events and state of affairs of QUERY have developed.

a contrasting moment

Uses "moment" to indicate a specific point in time that is unlike another.

under different circumstances

Focuses on the altered conditions surrounding an event or situation, rather than specifically on the time itself.

in another world

Exaggerates the differences of previous events using an imaginative expression.

FAQs

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

You can use "different time" to contrast past and present situations, for example: "It was a "different time" back then; people had different priorities".

What's a good alternative to "different time"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "distinct time", "another era", or "things have changed" to convey a similar meaning.

How does "different time" compare to "difficult time"?

"Different time" refers to a distinction in temporal context, while "difficult time" describes a challenging period. They are not interchangeable.

When is it appropriate to use "different time" in writing?

Use "different time" when you want to emphasize that circumstances, attitudes, or conditions were unlike those of the present or another referenced period.