differently to

USAGE SUMMARY

"differently to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to compare one thing to another in terms of the way something is being done. For example, "The two methods of data analysis approach the problem differently to each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Different people react differently to different content.

Huffington Post

Everyone reacts differently to different drugs.

The Guardian

Significantly, ECs respond differently to different types of shear stress.

Biomaterials

Different clays react differently to heat.

WikiHow

Different people will react differently to events.

The Economist

Individuals react differently to asbestos.

The Economist

Soldiers reacted differently to LSD.

The New Yorker

Some players are treated differently to others.

Independent

Solutes may respond differently to a detector.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Individuals respond differently to the same drug.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It works differently to Twitter.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "differently to" when directly comparing two distinct entities or actions and emphasizing their contrasting nature. For example, "The two models respond "differently to" the same set of inputs".

Common error

Avoid substituting "differently to" with "differently than" or "differently from" without considering the specific context. While all express difference, "differently to" emphasizes the object of the difference. Choosing the most appropriate preposition will improve the clarity and precision of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "differently to" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating the manner in which an action is performed or a state exists in comparison to something else. Ludwig examples show its use in describing contrasting reactions or behaviors.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "differently to" is a grammatically sound way to express contrast and comparison, although it is used less frequently than alternatives like "different from". Ludwig's analysis, supported by the provided examples, reveals that it commonly appears in news, science, and wiki contexts. While considered correct, paying attention to contextual nuance is crucial when opting for "differently to" over its more prevalent counterparts. Understanding the specific intent – whether emphasizing the distinct object or a broader difference – ensures precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with a different approach than

This alternative is focused on the contrast in approach or methodology.

in a different way than

This alternative provides a more explicit comparison, emphasizing the contrasting manner.

distinct from

This is a concise way to indicate that two things are not the same.

unlike

This option is a concise way to indicate dissimilarity but may lack the nuance of "differently to" in certain contexts.

varied from

This emphasizes the difference in approach or form.

in contrast with

This highlights the difference more directly, focusing on opposing characteristics.

by another means than

This alternative highlights a distinction in the method used.

dissimilarly from

This alternative uses a less common word but maintains a similar formal tone.

on the contrary to

This phrase introduces an opposing viewpoint or action.

of other type than

Emphasizes belonging to a different category or kind.

FAQs

How can I use "differently to" in a sentence?

Use "differently to" when showing a contrast in how two things respond or behave. For example, "Individuals react differently to asbestos."

What phrases are similar to "differently to"?

You can use alternatives such as "in a different way than", "unlike", or "in contrast with depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "differently to", "differently than", or "differently from"?

While all three options are used, "differently to" emphasizes the object of the difference. Consider the specific context to determine the most appropriate preposition. Often, "different from" is a more common and accepted alternative.

What's the difference between "differently to" and "differently from"?

"Differently to" directly emphasizes what is being contrasted, whereas "differently from" generally describes a broader sense of distinction. The choice depends on the intended focus of the comparison.