it is rather different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is rather different" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is noticeably distinct or dissimilar from something else. Example: "While both paintings are beautiful, it is rather different in style and technique compared to the other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"I've never found myself in such a leftwing group as this". If BAP has a political diversity problem, he says, it is rather different from the one its critics allege: "Some of the drier Conservatives who've come to conferences over the years have found... too much of a bleeding heart". The circular nature of the nomination process narrows the BAP membership in other ways.

The Guardian

It is rather different for Kaymer.

Independent

In the west it is rather different.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Today it is rather different: a woman scientist can more easily have an active sexual life, but in an environment that is still family-unfriendly, she might well echo her predecessor's "choice" and have no children.

The Guardian - Books

In this it is rather different to the approach used by short-read assemblers such as Velvet, AbYSS and Trinity.

BMC Genomics

It is rather different from other artificial maps that have been used in the literature, such as the one designed by Thorndyke and Stasz (1980) with respect of two characteristics: the distinctive visual characteristics of the different landmarks and the irregular not grid-like nature of the map.

Applied Cognitive Psychology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

For Sebastian Coe, it was rather different.

Independent

This time it's rather different.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was rather different back in 1948.

The Guardian - Sport

But now it's rather different.

The Guardian - Opinion

Eight months on, it was rather different.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is rather different" to introduce a contrast or highlight a distinction, ensuring the context clearly establishes what is being compared.

Common error

Avoid overuse of "rather" in highly formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, alternatives like "significantly" or "markedly" might provide a more precise and impactful tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is rather different" functions primarily as a comparative descriptor, highlighting a distinction between two subjects or situations. Ludwig AI’s examples demonstrate its use in drawing attention to disparities. This phrase serves to introduce a contrast.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is rather different" is a grammatically correct and relatively common way to express a noticeable difference or contrast. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as a comparative descriptor, often found in news, science, and academic contexts. While versatile, be mindful of the subtle formality it carries, and consider stronger alternatives like "it differs significantly" for more formal settings. Remember to clearly establish the points of comparison for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's quite dissimilar

Emphasizes the lack of resemblance; maintains a similar level of formality.

it's fairly distinct

Highlights the clear separation or difference between two things.

it's noticeably different

Directly points out that the difference is easily observed.

it differs somewhat

Indicates a partial difference, less strong than the original phrase.

it presents a contrast

Focuses on the opposition or divergence between two elements.

it stands apart

Highlights the uniqueness and separation from others.

it diverges significantly

Emphasizes the considerable deviation or difference.

it bears little resemblance

Stresses the minimal similarity or likeness.

it's a departure

Suggests a move away from the norm or previous state.

it's another story

Implies a completely different situation or set of circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "it is rather different" in a sentence?

Use "it is rather different" to indicate a noticeable distinction between two things. For example, "The first draft was rough, but the revised version "it is rather different"."

What are some alternatives to "it is rather different"?

You can use alternatives such as "it is quite dissimilar", "it is noticeably different", or "it differs somewhat" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "it is rather different" and "it is slightly different"?

"It is rather different" suggests a more significant difference compared to "it is slightly different", which implies a minor distinction.

Is "it is rather different" formal or informal?

"It is rather different" occupies a neutral to slightly formal register. While acceptable in many contexts, more formal situations might benefit from stronger alternatives like "it differs significantly".