differing in that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "differing in that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to highlight a specific distinction or difference between two or more subjects or ideas. Example: "The two theories are similar in many ways, differing in that one emphasizes individual behavior while the other focuses on societal influences."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Okvik art is concerned primarily with the representation of the human figure, differing in that respect from the contemporary or slightly later Old Bering Sea culture, where interest largely centres on animals, such as reindeer, elks, bears, and seals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We have employed this modified procedure but differing in that we set στ to a small finite value instead of to zero while maintaining Szz of 0.88 as an estimate of internal motion of the peptide.

Biochemistry

The notion that the reactive portion of the DHQ ring might pivot away from Lys170 falls in line with recent docking/molecular dynamic experiments, which, performed using the closed β8−α8 loop conformational state as a starting model, identified a stable binding mode for DHQ, similar to its position in the K170M structure but differing in that the 3-carbonyl has rotated away from Lys170.

Biochemistry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The categorization group differs in that a different set of category exemplars was used for the study items.

Plosone

This study differed in that we demonstrated a different relationship of MACE to Troponin and to CK-MB.

Cardiovascular Diabetology

While both indicators are based on declining job markets, they differ in that each comes from a different survey conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The New York Times

The higher register vocabulary of Hindi and Urdu also differs in that it comes from two different sources — Sanskrit and Persian respectively.

The Guardian - Travel

These groups differ in that they are usually facilitated by therapists and often draw from different ways of conceptualizing partner addiction.

Huffington Post

We differ in that approach.

The Guardian

But Jed and I really differ in that way.

The New York Times - Travel

However, these eyes differ in that they have lenses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "differing in that", ensure the subjects being compared are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify: "Method A and Method B are similar, differing in that Method A requires prior training."

Common error

Avoid using "differing in that" without clearly specifying what is being compared. For example, instead of saying "The approach is differing in that it is new", specify: "This approach differs from previous methods in that it incorporates artificial intelligence."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "differing in that" functions as a conjunctive phrase, specifically used to introduce a clause that specifies the distinction between two or more things being compared. Ludwig shows examples in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, indicating its versatility.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "differing in that" serves as a conjunctive phrase used to pinpoint a specific distinction between subjects, often within a context of broader similarities. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and versatile, appearing across scientific, news, and encyclopedic sources. While its register leans towards neutral to formal, it's crucial to ensure clarity by explicitly stating what is being compared to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "unique in that" or "distinguished by the fact that" can be used based on the specific nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinguished by the fact that

Emphasizes a characteristic that sets something apart; focuses on a factual difference.

characterized by a variation where

Highlights the presence of a variation that defines the distinction.

unique in that

Focuses on the element of uniqueness as the key differentiating factor.

distinct due to the reason that

Stresses the reason or cause behind the distinctiveness.

varies because

A simpler alternative indicating the reason for the difference.

sets itself apart because

Indicates a deliberate act of differentiation.

contrasts in that

Highlights a direct opposition or contrast.

diverges because

Focuses on the act of moving in a different direction or path.

differs on the grounds that

Indicates the specific basis or justification for the difference.

stands apart as

Suggests a clear and noticeable separation or distinction.

FAQs

How can I use "differing in that" in a sentence?

Use "differing in that" to point out a specific distinction between two things. For example: "These two models are similar, "differing in that" one is electric and the other is gas-powered".

What's the difference between "different from" and "differing in that"?

"Different from" generally indicates a broad difference, while "differing in that" pinpoints a specific, key distinction. For instance, "The cultures are different from each other" is general, but "The cultures are similar, "differing in that" one is matriarchal" is specific.

What are some alternatives to "differing in that"?

Alternatives include "unique in that", "distinguished by the fact that", or "varies because", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "differing in that" to highlight a distinction?

No, simpler phrases like "but" or "however" can be sufficient if the distinction is obvious. "Differing in that" is most useful when you want to emphasize a particular difference between otherwise similar subjects.