different to one another

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'different to one another' is a perfectly valid way to phrase things in written English.
You can use it when you want to compare two things or two groups of things and point out how they are distinct. For example, "The two cats had very different personalities to one another."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

I've seen three separate edits (the 150 minute pre-release version that knocked me out, the 135 release cut (25 of those 30 viewings), and the Blu-Ray director's cut of 172 minutes) and all strike distinct and equally wondrous variations on the same themes, yet seem radically different to one another at a gut level.

The Guardian - Film

Such authors could, however different to one another, be regarded as literary staples.

The Guardian - Books

He compared the US and UK editions of the book, and realised they were "quite different to one another".

The Guardian - Books

We have, therefore, coined the term EMFs to describe proteins whose multiple functions are very different to one another.

Nature

They found that while the Dmanisi skulls looked different to one another, the variations were no greater than those seen among modern people and among chimps.

The Guardian

In any case, the various choirs that will be singing between now and 19 June will all undoubtedly sound different to one another.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

This analysis was further used to compare the datasets obtained for the different lectins, yielding information about the proximity of different sugars to one another.

FASEB Journal

"We had a lot of differences, but we hammered them out and conceded different points to one another.

The New York Times

Similarly, people buried in the same house seem to have had different diets to one another.

Journal of Archaeological Science

"But it can also help bridge the divide and expose online users with different sentiments to one another's information sources and viewpoints".

The New Yorker

We then developed our matrix to compare these individual metrics, and using this matrix, we compared different subjects to one another.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing multiple items, ensure the context clearly establishes what characteristics are "different to one another". For example, 'The architectural styles of the buildings were different to one another, showcasing the city's diverse history'.

Common error

While "different to" is acceptable in British English, "different from" is generally preferred in American English. Consider your target audience to ensure your writing resonates effectively. If in doubt, "different from" is a safer choice for broader appeal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "different to one another" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, indicating a state of dissimilarity or distinction between two or more entities. It's used to highlight the unique qualities or characteristics that set things apart, as shown by the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "different to one another" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression for highlighting distinctions between multiple subjects. While acceptable, remember that the phrase "different from one another" is often preferred in American English. Ludwig's AI confirms the validity of this phrase, supported by diverse examples across various reliable sources. To enhance your writing, consider using synonyms such as "distinct from each other", and always consider your target audience to ensure clear and effective communication. Be creative and precise with your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinct from each other

This phrase emphasizes the separateness and individuality of the items being compared.

dissimilar to each other

Focuses on the lack of resemblance between the items.

unlike each other

Highlights the contrast and absence of common characteristics.

varied from each other

Suggests differences that arise from inherent variations within the items.

contrasting with each other

Emphasizes opposing or significantly different qualities.

divergent from each other

Implies a gradual moving apart or development of differences.

at variance with each other

Suggests disagreement or conflict in addition to differences.

separate from each other

Focuses on the physical or conceptual detachment between items.

discernible from each other

Highlights that the differences are clear and easily noticeable.

differentiated from each other

Emphasizes that a conscious effort or process has established the differences.

FAQs

What is the difference between "different to each other" and "different from each other"?

While both phrases convey the same meaning, "different from each other" is generally preferred in American English, whereas "different to each other" is more common in British English. Both are grammatically correct.

What can I say instead of "different to one another"?

You can use alternatives like "distinct from each other", "dissimilar to each other", or "unlike each other" depending on the context.

How do I use "different to one another" in a sentence?

You can use "different to one another" to compare and contrast multiple subjects. For example, "The paintings in the gallery were all incredibly different to one another, reflecting the artists' diverse backgrounds".

Is it incorrect to use "different to one another"?

No, it is not incorrect, especially in British English. However, be mindful of your audience, as "different from one another" may be more widely understood. Ultimately, either phrase is acceptable.