no different than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "no different than" is a valid and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are trying to make a comparison, showing that two or more things are essentially the same. For example, "The way she treats her family is no different than how she treats her friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That we are no different than you".

The Economist

"We are no different than anybody else.

The New York Times - Tech

It's no different than his brother.

The New York Times - Sports

He's no different than I am".

The New York Times - Sports

That's no different than high school".

The New York Times

I'm no different than anyone else".

The New York Times - Sports

It's no different than building houses.

The New York Times

Ebay is no different than that.

The New York Times

And countries are no different than people".

The New York Times

"But we're no different than anyone.

The New York Times - Sports

"Our clubhouse is no different than society.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "no different than" to draw parallels between seemingly disparate subjects, highlighting shared characteristics or qualities to create emphasis or understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "no different than" in convoluted sentences with multiple clauses. Simplify the comparison for clarity or use a more precise comparative term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "no different than" functions as a comparative connector, linking two elements to assert their similarity. It is used to equate or draw parallels between subjects, emphasizing that they share key attributes or characteristics. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "no different than" is a versatile comparative connector, effectively used to highlight similarities between various subjects. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and enjoys widespread usage across diverse sources, especially in News & Media. While semantically close alternatives like "just the same as" or "equivalent to" exist, "no different than" holds its own as a reliable and frequently employed expression for establishing equivalence. Remember to consider context and avoid overuse in overly complex comparisons to maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just the same as

This alternative uses a simpler structure to convey equivalence.

identical to

This alternative emphasizes exact correspondence.

equivalent to

This alternative highlights functional or conceptual equality.

on par with

This alternative suggests a similar level or standard.

the same as

A more concise way of expressing similarity.

akin to

This alternative implies a resemblance or affinity.

not unlike

This alternative uses a double negative to express similarity.

comparable to

This alternative suggests that a comparison can be made, implying similarity.

indistinguishable from

This alternative stresses the inability to perceive a difference.

bears comparison to

This alternative suggests that a comparison is relevant and likely to reveal similarities.

FAQs

How can I use "no different than" in a sentence?

Use "no different than" to compare two things that share similar characteristics. For example, "His reaction was "just the same as" anyone else's in that situation".

What are some alternatives to "no different than"?

Alternatives include "identical to", "equivalent to", or "the same as", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "no different from" instead of "no different than"?

While "no different than" is widely accepted and commonly used, "no different from" is also grammatically correct. The choice often depends on regional preference or stylistic considerations.

In what contexts is "no different than" most appropriate?

"No different than" is suitable for general comparisons across various contexts, but ensure it accurately reflects the degree of similarity you intend to express. For situations requiring more precision, consider using alternatives that specify the nature of the similarity more closely.