grave differences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grave differences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe significant or serious disagreements or disparities between parties or ideas. Example: "The negotiations broke down due to the grave differences in their positions on climate policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The fact is that grave differences exist between Judaism and Christianity.

The New York Times - Sports

"Look, he and I have very grave differences, and this is one of them".

The New York Times

We have grave differences with the Russians in terms of both the parties we support but also the process that's required to bring about peace in Syria.

The Guardian

It was said throughout the disciplinary hearing that there were grave differences of opinion among the students; some favoring an immediate walk-out, others arguing to disrupt the hearings, others preferring a dignified defense.

Princeton University

While the British Government may still believe that these grave differences can be resolved by way of direct negotiations, the German Government unfortunately can no longer share this view as a matter of course.

Yale University

Speaking on the sidelines of the G20 summit that got under way in Hangzhou, China, on Sunday morning, Obama said both countries still had "grave differences" over the future course of action to put an end to the five years of violence in Syria.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

In a fiercely competitive job market (despite rapid economic growth, graduate unemployment has been rising), one word could make a grave difference.

The Economist

But there is a grave difference to the chess analogy: a 200-metre runner cannot secretly use the assistance of a bicycle, but a chess player can most certainly get his moves surreptitiously from a computer.

The Guardian - Tech

There is a grave difference between "the program cannot" vs "the program will not".

Huffington Post

Later, Blaine was more ambiguous about the validity of the charges against Johnson, writing that "there was a very grave difference of opinion among those equally competent to decide," but at the time partisan zeal led him to follow his party's leaders.

Wikipedia

But now, for the first time, graver differences over strategy in the region are flaring into the open.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grave differences" to highlight disagreements or disparities that have significant consequences or pose serious challenges to resolution.

Common error

Avoid using "grave differences" when describing minor disagreements. Reserve it for situations where the differences are substantial and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grave differences" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Examples show it describing disagreements between parties or disparities in opinions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

29%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "grave differences" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase to describe serious disagreements or disparities. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and the examples show its use in contexts where the differences have significant implications. While not extremely common, it is well-established, particularly in news and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the context warrants the emphasis on the seriousness of the differences being described. Alternatives such as "serious disagreements" or "significant disparities" can be considered for less critical situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious disagreements

Emphasizes the disagreements' importance, similar to "grave differences" but less formal.

significant disparities

Focuses on the differences in quantity or quality between things, rather than direct disagreement.

profound disagreements

Highlights the depth and intellectual nature of the disagreements.

fundamental differences

Suggests that the differences are at the core of the matter, affecting basic principles.

deep-seated conflicts

Implies long-standing and potentially emotional disagreements.

irreconcilable differences

Indicates that the differences are too great to be resolved or bridged.

major points of contention

Draws attention to the specific issues causing disagreement.

stark contrasts

Highlights sharp and obvious differences, often in visual or measurable terms.

substantial divergences

Emphasizes the act of moving in different directions, applicable to opinions or strategies.

discordant views

Focuses on the lack of harmony or agreement in perspectives.

FAQs

How can I use "grave differences" in a sentence?

You can use "grave differences" to describe serious disagreements between parties. For example, "Despite efforts to reconcile, "grave differences" remained between the negotiating teams".

What's the difference between "serious differences" and "grave differences"?

"Grave differences" imply a more severe and consequential level of disagreement than "serious differences". "Grave" adds a sense of urgency or potential danger.

Are there synonyms for "grave differences"?

Yes, alternatives include "significant disparities", "profound disagreements", or "fundamental differences". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "grave differences"?

It is appropriate when highlighting disagreements that are critical, impactful, and potentially threatening to a relationship, negotiation, or situation. It adds a sense of importance and urgency.