differs from

USAGE SUMMARY

'differs from' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used in order to compare two things which are different from one another. For example: "My opinion on the issue of climate change greatly differs from that of my father's."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Hope differs from optimism.

The New Yorker

Yucatecan fare differs from other Mexican food.

The New York Times - Food

Reactor fuel differs from plant to plant.

The New York Times

Her library evidently differs from most.

The New York Times

Clearly, Hollywood history differs from historians' history.

The New York Times

The Canadian version differs from Chapter 11.

The New York Times

Commemoration differs from celebration in important ways.

The New York Times

The Commonwealth differs from other international bodies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That's how politics differs from science.

The Guardian

The process differs from school to school.

The New York Times

In this he differs from his competitors.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "differs from", ensure that both subjects being compared are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify what aspects are different.

Common error

Avoid using "differs than" instead of "differs from". "Differs from" is the grammatically correct and widely accepted form.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "differs from" primarily functions as a verb phrase used for comparison and contrast. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase to highlight distinctions between two or more subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "differs from" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase to indicate distinctions between subjects. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is a valid and effective way to express dissimilarity. It is frequently found in news, scientific, and general knowledge contexts. While synonyms like "varies from" or "contrasts with" exist, "differs from" maintains a neutral tone suitable for various communicative purposes. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in defining the compared subjects and avoid the common error of using "differs than".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is distinct from

This alternative highlights the unique characteristics that set something apart.

varies from

This alternative suggests a range of differences or inconsistencies between items.

is unlike

This alternative is a more informal way of indicating dissimilarity.

sets itself apart from

Emphasizes a deliberate effort to be different or superior.

diverges from

This alternative implies a more significant deviation or branching off from a standard or norm.

contrasts with

This alternative emphasizes a direct opposition or dissimilarity between two things.

stands apart from

Highlights the uniqueness and separateness of something compared to others.

departs from

Suggests a deviation from an established pattern or expectation.

deviates from

Implies straying away from a specific course, principle, or standard.

bears no resemblance to

Indicates a complete lack of similarity.

FAQs

How do I use "differs from" in a sentence?

Use "differs from" to show how two or more things are not the same. For example, "His approach "differs from" much other commentary."

What's a synonym for "differs from"?

Alternatives to "differs from" include phrases like "varies from", "is distinct from", or "contrasts with", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is it correct to say "differs than" instead of "differs from"?

No, "differs than" is grammatically incorrect. The correct preposition to use with "differs" is "from". Therefore, use ""differs from"".

What is the difference between "differs from" and "diverges from"?

"Differs from" generally means to be dissimilar, while "diverges from" implies a more significant deviation, often suggesting a branching off from a standard or expected path.