fundamental difference between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fundamental difference between" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing or comparing two or more concepts, ideas, or entities that have a significant distinction or divergence. Example: "There is a fundamental difference between how traditional and modern education systems approach learning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a fundamental difference between what we believe.

The New York Times

There's one fundamental difference between the government and ourselves.

The Guardian

About the fundamental difference between us, Min would answer.

The New Yorker

There is one fundamental difference between parenting and teaching.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is a fundamental difference between my opponent and me.

The New York Times

There's a fundamental difference between gothic ruins and modern ruination.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's the fundamental difference between those films and new films".

The New York Times - Books

But there is a fundamental difference between Toyota and Intermountain.

The New York Times

"There is a fundamental difference between cows and screwdrivers.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is the fundamental difference between Democrats and Republicans.

The New Yorker

At issue is the fundamental difference between information and meaning.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fundamental difference between" to introduce critical insights or turning points in arguments, enhancing clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "fundamental difference between" for trivial distinctions. Reserve it for significant contrasts that have substantial implications or impacts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fundamental difference between" functions as a connector introducing a comparison. It signals a significant distinction that is central to understanding the relationship between two or more entities. Ludwig AI shows consistent use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

27%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "fundamental difference between" is a widely used and grammatically correct construction for emphasizing significant distinctions. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across diverse contexts, particularly in news, academic, and business domains. Alternatives like "key distinction between" or "primary contrast between" can offer variety while maintaining clarity. When employing this phrase, ensure you are highlighting substantial contrasts rather than minor variations to maximize its impact and informative value. The phrase's utility is further reinforced by its consistent appearance in authoritative sources, solidifying its status as a valuable tool for precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key distinction between

Emphasizes a significant point of divergence.

primary contrast between

Focuses on the main area where things differ.

major disparity between

Highlights a considerable inequality or dissimilarity.

core variance between

Points to the essential or central point of difference.

principal divergence between

Stresses the main direction in which things separate or deviate.

essential contrast between

Highlights a difference that is absolutely necessary or crucial.

basic difference between

Refers to a simple, underlying distinction.

chief distinction between

Indicates the most important difference.

central opposition between

Emphasizes a key conflicting aspect.

critical divergence between

Points to a significant difference that is crucial.

FAQs

How can I use "fundamental difference between" in a sentence?

You can use "fundamental difference between" to highlight key distinctions. For example, "There is a "fundamental difference between" theory and practice".

What's a good alternative to "fundamental difference between"?

Alternatives include "key distinction between", "primary contrast between", or "major disparity between", depending on the specific context.

What makes a difference "fundamental"?

A "fundamental" difference is a core, essential, or basic distinction that significantly affects the nature, function, or outcome of the entities being compared.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state what the "fundamental difference between" two things is?

While not always grammatically required, stating the difference explicitly provides clarity and avoids ambiguity, enhancing the reader's understanding.