is substantially different from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is substantially different from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare two things, indicating that they have significant differences. Example: "The new policy is substantially different from the previous one, which focused more on flexibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That operating system is substantially different from Apple's.

The New York Times - Tech

And it's luck that animates his novel, which is substantially different from the film.

The New York Times - Arts

The sound that comes off Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards's shoes is substantially different from Dorrance's.

The New Yorker

The construction of low-speed synchronous generators is substantially different from that of high-speed units.

Britannica

Luck will join a franchise that is substantially different from the one Manning elevated to greatness.

The New York Times - Sports

Either they are paranoid or their way of figuring what their interests are is substantially different from ours.

The New Yorker

You mention that it is substantially different from the octopus — for example, in how sensitive it is to its environment.

The New Yorker

You mention that it is substantially different from the octopus for example, in how sensitive it is to its environment.

The New Yorker

However, fluid phase behavior in a shale reservoir is substantially different from conventional behavior.

Fluid Phase Equilibria

But, in fact, Mr. Lieberman's message -- and his nature as a messenger -- is substantially different from that of Christian conservatives over the last 20 years.

The New York Times

This 40-minute segment of "Explorer" (at the start of the program) is substantially different from a shorter version shown in March.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is substantially different from" to highlight significant and impactful distinctions, ensuring the reader understands the importance of the difference.

Common error

Avoid using "is substantially different from" when the differences are trivial or superficial. Opt for phrases like "is slightly different from" or "has minor variations" for less significant distinctions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is substantially different from" functions as a comparative expression. It emphasizes the significant degree of dissimilarity between two subjects, indicating that the differences are impactful and noteworthy. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

28%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is substantially different from" is a versatile comparative expression used to highlight significant distinctions between two entities. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it enjoys widespread usage across diverse fields like science, news media, and academia. Its core function is to underscore impactful differences, making it a valuable tool for clarity and precision in writing. When using the phrase, remember to reserve it for differences that are truly noteworthy, avoiding overstatement of minor variations. While variations like "vastly different" and "markedly distinct" can add nuance, "is substantially different from" remains a reliable and widely accepted choice for conveying significant dissimilarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is vastly different from

Emphasizes a greater degree of difference than the original phrase.

is markedly distinct from

Highlights a clear and noticeable distinction.

differs significantly from

A more concise way of expressing substantial difference.

is significantly unlike

Directly states a lack of similarity.

is considerably divergent from

Focuses on the idea of moving away from a common point.

contrasts sharply with

Highlights a stark and immediate difference.

is noticeably disparate from

Emphasizes the separation or inequality between two things.

is materially different from

Suggests a difference that affects the outcome or essence.

is fundamentally opposed to

Implies a deeper, more basic conflict or contrast.

bears little resemblance to

Indicates a minimal degree of similarity.

FAQs

How can I use "is substantially different from" in a sentence?

Use "is substantially different from" to compare two subjects, indicating that they possess significant, impactful differences. For instance, "The company's new strategy "is substantially different from" its previous approach, focusing now on sustainable growth".

What are some alternatives to "is substantially different from"?

Alternatives include "is vastly different from", "is markedly distinct from", or "is significantly unlike", each carrying a slightly different nuance in emphasizing the dissimilarity.

Is it appropriate to use "is substantially different from" in formal writing?

Yes, "is substantially different from" is appropriate for formal writing. Its clear and precise language makes it suitable for academic, scientific, and professional contexts.

What's the difference between "is slightly different from" and "is substantially different from"?

"Is slightly different from" indicates minor variations, while "is substantially different from" highlights major, impactful distinctions. The choice depends on the degree of difference you want to emphasize.