not substantially different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not substantially different" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means that something is not significantly or noticeably different from something else. Example: The two versions of the proposal were reviewed and found to be not substantially different from each other.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tsongkhapa contends that these two aspects are not substantially different, but only differ conceptually.

SEP

The arrangement is not substantially different, either.

The Guardian

Many senior members of the traditional Republican party proved upon examination not substantially different.

The Guardian - Opinion

The assessment of the Soviet economy last year was not substantially different from Moscow's own.

The New York Times

In fact, Engadget says the device is not substantially different from Verizon's Droid.

MIT Technology Review

Other skin products, approved in 2002, made small improvements but were not substantially different, according to a company spokeswoman.

The New York Times - Health

Dessert was Cippamisu -- the definitive tiramisu, not substantially different from the norm except in its compact cylindrical shape, just better.

The New York Times - Travel

This Congress is not substantially different from the next one just short a few Republican seats.

The New York Times

The mechanical properties of fractionated and whole blends were not substantially different.

Polymer

510, 97 L.Ed. 754; the third question is not substantially different from the second and is also controlled by Kahriger.

Cornell University

Meanwhile, the Police Department, after withdrawing its initial parade restrictions in the face of public opposition, has announced a revised proposal that is not substantially different.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not substantially different", ensure that you are comparing specific aspects or features. Clearly state what is being compared to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "not substantially different" when there are clear and important distinctions. This phrase implies a high degree of similarity, so ensure your assessment is accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not substantially different" functions as an adjectival phrase used to qualify a noun or subject by indicating a lack of significant difference. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase follows standard grammatical rules and is widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

37%

Academia

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not substantially different" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that items being compared are largely similar. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is widely used and adheres to standard grammar conventions. Its frequency across science, news, and academic contexts highlights its appropriateness for objective and professional communication. When using this phrase, ensure that comparisons are clearly defined, and that the level of similarity is accurately represented to avoid misleading interpretations. Alternatives like ""not significantly different"" or ""broadly similar"" can offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not significantly different

Focuses on the statistical or measurable difference, implying the variation is too small to be meaningful.

not materially different

Emphasizes that any existing differences do not affect the outcome or essential nature.

not considerably different

Highlights that the degree of difference is small and unremarkable.

not markedly different

Implies any variations are subtle and not easily noticeable.

not noticeably different

Indicates that the difference is imperceptible or difficult to detect.

not essentially the same

Focuses on the core nature being alike although minor variation may exist.

broadly similar

Suggests that the overall characteristics or features are comparable.

largely equivalent

Emphasizes functional or practical interchangeability.

much the same

Informal way of expressing close similarity or equivalence.

roughly comparable

Suggests a degree of approximation in similarity.

FAQs

How can I use "not substantially different" in a sentence?

The phrase "not substantially different" is used to indicate that two or more things are alike or similar in most aspects. For example: "The new model is "not substantially different" from the previous version."

What can I say instead of "not substantially different"?

Alternatives to "not substantially different" include "not significantly different", "largely equivalent", or "broadly similar", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "not substantially different" or "not significantly different"?

The choice between "not substantially different" and "not significantly different" depends on the context. "Not significantly different" is often used in statistical or measurable contexts, while "not substantially different" is a more general term indicating a lack of major difference.

What is the difference between "not substantially different" and "identical"?

"Not substantially different" implies that there may be minor differences, but they are not significant. "Identical" means exactly the same, with no differences at all.