is unlike that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is unlike that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare two things, indicating that one is different from the other in some way. Example: "Her approach to problem-solving is unlike that of her colleagues, who prefer a more traditional method."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The editorial mix is unlike that of most women's magazines.

The New York Times

I love Dave Eggers but his bay area reverence is unlike that of a native.

The New Yorker

By contrast, the homeostasis problem of marine fishes is unlike that of most marine animals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The construction of the frame is unlike that of any other motorcycle.

The New York Times

The olfactory system of fish is independent of the respiratory system, which is unlike that of terrestrial vertebrates.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"The face is unlike that of a gorilla, being remarkably flattened, and the muzzle is very short," Sir Arthur declared.

The New York Times

Mr. Sondheim bears a relationship to his vocation that is unlike that of any artist in any other field.

The New York Times

This "dog's-eye view" is unlike that of any dog you'll ever encounter, even inside the Beltway.

The New York Times - Books

The demographic makeup of the electorate in Virginia is unlike that of any other state in the South.

The New York Times

A toe bone recovered from this age range is unlike that of apes and has a diagnostically humanlike shape that indicates upright walking (bipedalism).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The early development of the vascular system is unlike that in dicotyledons, for several parallel procambial strands, rather than a single midrib, are initiated.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is unlike that" to clearly and concisely highlight a difference between two subjects, ensuring your comparison is easily understood by the reader. This phrase is best suited for situations where a distinct contrast needs to be emphasized.

Common error

Avoid using "is unlike that" when a simple difference can be expressed more directly. Overusing the phrase in contexts where a basic "is different" suffices can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is unlike that" serves as a comparative linking phrase, indicating a contrast or dissimilarity between two subjects. Ludwig examples showcase its usage across various domains to highlight unique characteristics or differences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is unlike that" effectively highlights a difference between two subjects, functioning as a comparative linking phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and finds frequent use across diverse contexts, predominantly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. While generally neutral in tone, it leans towards formality, making it suitable for professional and academic writing. Consider alternatives like "is different from that" or "differs from that" for nuanced expression, and avoid overuse in contexts where simpler language suffices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is different from that

Replaces "unlike" with its direct synonym, focusing on the distinction between two things.

is dissimilar to that

A more formal and direct way of expressing that two things are not alike.

contrasts with that

Directly points out the differences when comparing two things.

differs from that

Uses a verb to highlight the point of divergence or variation.

is distinct from that

Emphasizes the separateness and individuality of one thing compared to another.

bears no resemblance to that

Indicates a complete lack of similarity, highlighting the contrast.

is not analogous to that

Highlights the lack of parallelism or correspondence between two things.

stands in contrast to that

Focuses on the opposition or divergence between two things.

is at odds with that

Suggests a conflict or incompatibility between two things.

deviates from that

Indicates a departure from a standard or expected pattern.

FAQs

How can I use "is unlike that" in a sentence?

Use "is unlike that" to highlight differences between two subjects. For example: "The demographic makeup of the electorate in Virginia "is unlike that" of any other state in the South."

What can I say instead of "is unlike that"?

You can use alternatives like "is different from that", "differs from that", or "contrasts with that" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is unlike that" or "is not like that"?

"Is unlike that" and "is not like that" are both grammatically correct, but "is unlike that" is more formal and emphasizes the distinctiveness of the difference, whereas "is not like that" is more general.

What's the difference between "is unlike that" and "differs from that"?

While both phrases indicate a difference, "differs from that" often implies a more specific or measurable difference, whereas "is unlike that" can encompass broader, more qualitative distinctions.