differs in similar ways

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "differs in similar ways" is not correct and can be confusing in written English.
It suggests a contradiction, as "differs" implies differences while "similar" suggests likeness. Example: "The two theories differ in similar ways, which makes it difficult to choose between them."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

If another image differs in similar ways, chances are it's similar to the first image.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

If nest morphologies across species show similar responses to shared selective pressures across our sites (e.g., most species increase nest mass under cold conditions), then we predicted that nests in northern Manitoba would differ in similar ways from nests in southeastern Ontario.

Plosone

Our work is motivated by the need for methods that identify sets of genes that differ in similar ways between two time series, even when their expression profiles are quite different.

Bioinformatics

Further, those who received the questionnaire but did not return it differed from respondents in similar ways.

BMC Psychiatry

It is not known if the same species are impacted in similar ways in differing ecosystems.

BMC Ecology

Both work in similar ways.

The Economist

Prayer works in similar ways.

The New York Times

The sites work in similar ways.

The New York Times - Tech

But the networks operate in similar ways.

The Guardian - Opinion

Many light treatments work in similar ways.

WikiHow

Lower SES-groups differed in a similar way from the higher SES-groups.

BMC Pediatrics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing items, avoid using the phrase "differs in similar ways" as it creates a logical contradiction. Instead, opt for phrases like "varies in comparable ways" or "diverges in analogous ways" to more accurately describe the relationship between the items.

Common error

Avoid combining terms that inherently contradict each other. Instead of saying something "differs in similar ways", clearly articulate the specific differences and similarities separately to avoid confusing your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "differs in similar ways" attempts to describe a nuanced comparison, but its function is unclear. Because Ludwig AI states the phrase sounds contradictory, the intention can be misunderstood. Example: "The two processes differ in similar ways".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

31%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "differs in similar ways" is grammatically questionable and can lead to confusion due to its contradictory nature, as noted by Ludwig AI. While it appears in various contexts, it is not a commonly used phrase, and it's advisable to opt for more precise and clear language. Consider alternatives like "varies in comparable ways" or "diverges in analogous ways" to better express nuanced comparisons and distinctions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

varies in comparable ways

Replaces "differs" with "varies" to soften the contradiction and emphasizes the existence of variations along a similar scale or method.

diverges in analogous ways

Uses "diverges" to highlight the act of moving away from a common point, clarifying the separation while maintaining a similar trajectory.

departs in a parallel manner

Emphasizes a simultaneous deviation but in alignment, as if the differences are intended to be similar.

shows related discrepancies

Focuses on the discrepancies or inconsistencies between items, while noting the relationship in the types of differences that occur.

exhibits similar variations

Highlights the types of variations themselves as being alike, rather than pointing to the act of differing.

contrast in aligned patterns

It is more nuanced and focuses on the patterns, suggesting a structural similarity despite the differences.

manifests kindred dissimilarities

Combines the acknowledgment of dissimilarity with the bond or kinship that links the differing aspects.

presents connected deviations

Implies that the deviations are related or linked together in some meaningful way.

modifies in a uniform style

The emphasis here is on uniformity, despite the alterations or modifications happening.

deviates through a corresponding fashion

Deviation suggests straying from a path, while the correspondence hints at a mutual or reciprocal relationship despite the departure.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to say "differs in similar ways"?

The phrase "differs in similar ways" is grammatically questionable and can be confusing. It's better to use alternatives that more clearly express the intended meaning.

What can I say instead of "differs in similar ways"?

You can use alternatives like "varies in comparable ways", "diverges in analogous ways", or "departs in a parallel manner" depending on the context.

How can I clarify the differences and similarities between two things?

Instead of using the phrase "differs in similar ways", clearly articulate the specific differences and similarities. For example, state: "While both approaches share X, they differ in Y and Z."

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "differs in similar ways"?

Given its contradictory nature, it's generally not advisable to use the phrase "differs in similar ways". Opt for more precise language to avoid confusion.