differs in size

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "differs in size" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when comparing the sizes of two or more objects or entities. For example, "The two species of birds differ in size, with one being significantly larger than the other." Alternative expressions include "varies in size," "is different in size," and "contrasts in size."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

The W chromosome differs in size between different avian species, being almost identical to the Z in size in Palaeognathae, to being smaller and heterochromatic in many Neognathae (reviewed in Stiglec et al. 2007).

Chromosoma

Since each of SUNY's four major universities differs in size and history, each has been undergoing a unique transition.

The New York Times - Sports

Brides select a dress on the basis of a sample gown, which sometimes differs in size, color or quality from the dress they order.

The New York Times

The authors also admitted that the D3 symmetry in the dsRNA organization probably did not reflect the true arrangement given the fact that the RNA genome differs in size among the 10 segments in each virus.

Biophysics Reports

Unlike other communications networks, the V2G communication has its own characteristics that the vehicular network differs in size and vehicular speed, as well as relevance of their geographic positions (Huaqun et al. 2011).

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Distinct from hemicentin, zebrafish similar to hemicentin differs in size, structure and possibly function.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The centres were located in different demographic areas and differed in size.

Cardiovascular Diabetology

There are at least 100-120 different groups, with various aims, and differing in size from thousands to just 100-200 members.

The Guardian

Probes differ in size by means of spacers of different length that are probe-specific.

Human Mutation

The variants differ in size, with the largest almost twice as big as the smallest.

The New York Times - Science

They differ in size, computational power, and Internet access.

Signal Processing: Image Communication

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing multiple items, use "differs in size" to clearly indicate that size is the differentiating factor. For instance, "The apples differ in size, affecting their suitability for various recipes."

Common error

Avoid using "differs in size" without providing relevant context. For example, instead of just saying "The samples differ in size", specify how and why the size difference is important: "The samples differ in size, with the larger ones exhibiting a higher concentration of the compound."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "differs in size" functions as a verb phrase followed by a prepositional phrase, indicating a distinction based on physical dimensions. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in various scientific and general contexts to highlight differences in the size of objects or entities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "differs in size" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate distinctions based on physical dimensions. Ludwig examples confirm its versatility across various domains, including science, news, and general writing. The phrase serves the purpose of comparing and contrasting entities by highlighting size as a differentiating factor. Its register is neutral, making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Given the analysis from Ludwig AI, it's clear that "differs in size" is a reliable and effective way to convey size-related distinctions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

varies in dimensions

Emphasizes that the size is not fixed and can change.

shows size variation

Highlights the existence of different sizes within a group.

exhibits size differences

Focuses on the presence of noticeable discrepancies in size.

presents a size range

Indicates the existence of a spectrum of sizes.

has different magnitudes

Uses 'magnitude' as a more formal term for size.

is of unequal dimensions

Highlights the lack of equality in size.

demonstrates size disparities

Emphasizes the inequality in size in a more formal tone.

displays size contrasts

Focuses on the clear distinctions in size.

diverges in spatial extent

Uses more technical terms like spatial extent for size, relevant for scientific or technical contexts.

contrasts in physical scale

Focuses on measurable differences with technical term scale.

FAQs

How can I use "differs in size" in a sentence?

You can use "differs in size" to compare the dimensions of two or more objects. For example, "The two paintings "differ in size", with one being significantly larger than the other."

What's the difference between "differs in size" and "varies in size"?

"Differs in size" typically compares distinct objects, while "varies in size" implies a range or continuous change within a group. For example, "These apples "differ in size"" versus "Apple sizes "vary in size" depending on the season."

What are some alternatives to saying "differs in size"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "is different in size", "varies in dimensions", or "exhibits size differences".

Is it correct to say "differ in sizes"?

While understandable, "differ in sizes" is less common and less precise than ""differ in size"". The singular "size" focuses on the attribute of size, rather than multiple instances of sizes.