in a different direction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a different direction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a change in course, approach, or perspective in various contexts, such as travel, decision-making, or thought processes. Example: "After considering the feedback, we decided to take the project in a different direction to better meet our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Each piece headed in a different direction.

The New York Times - Arts

Yusef develops in a different direction.

The New Yorker

Can it evolve in a different direction?

The New York Times - Arts

Gardner went in a different direction.

The New Yorker

They've gone in a different direction.

The New York Times

They got pushed in a different direction".

The Guardian

He went in a different direction, though.

The New York Times

Marston's research ran in a different direction.

The New Yorker

Michael went in a different direction.

The New York Times

Californians go in a different direction entirely.

The New York Times

Fellow campaigners went in a different direction.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a different direction" to clearly indicate a change in strategy, focus, or opinion, ensuring your audience understands the shift and its implications.

Common error

Avoid using "in a different direction" when you mean a complete reversal or moving towards the exact opposite. The phrase implies a deviation, not necessarily a direct opposition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a different direction" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate a change of course, approach, or perspective. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Sports

18%

Arts

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in a different direction" is a versatile and commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates a change in course, strategy, or perspective. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news, sports, and arts. While generally neutral in register, its specific tone adapts to the communication scenario. Remember to use it to clearly signal a shift, but avoid using it when you mean a complete reversal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heading in another direction

Focuses on the act of movement and trajectory.

on a different path

Emphasizes the journey or progression aspect of changing direction.

taking a different turn

Highlights a specific point of deviation or decision.

moving along a different trajectory

Stresses a shift in the overall path and development.

shifting to another course

Implies a more formal or planned change in direction.

veering off course

Suggests a deviation from a previously set route or plan.

adopting a new approach

Highlights a change in methodology or strategy.

changing tack

Implies a shift in strategy, often used in nautical or figurative contexts.

going a separate way

Emphasizes independence and individual divergence.

diverging from the norm

Focuses on the act of departing from standard practices.

FAQs

How can I use "in a different direction" in a sentence?

You can use "in a different direction" to indicate a change of course, strategy, or perspective. For example: "After receiving feedback, the team decided to take the project "in a different direction"."

What are some alternatives to "in a different direction"?

Some alternatives include "on a different path", "taking a different turn", or "heading in another direction". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it more correct to say "in a different direction" or "in another direction"?

Both "in a different direction" and "in another direction" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. However, "in a different direction" emphasizes a divergence in approach or strategy, while "in another direction" simply indicates a change in physical or metaphorical location.

What is the difference between "in a different direction" and "in the opposite direction"?

"In a different direction" implies a change of course that may or may not be directly opposing the original direction. "In the opposite direction", on the other hand, specifically means moving directly away from the initial direction.