of a different breed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "of a different breed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is unique or distinct from others, often in a positive or exceptional way. Example: "Her dedication to her craft is truly inspiring; she is of a different breed compared to her peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Spillane's Hammer was of a different breed from the detectives who had gone before.

The Guardian - Film

A fine needlework specimen of a different breed is the "Pot of Flowers Hooked Rug" (1885-1900).

The New York Times - Arts

These cosmetic changes aside, he cannot hide that he is of a different breed from many television reporters.

The New Yorker

Why? –What might it say about Mr. Kerry that he chose a "factotum" of "a different breed," according to the article?

The New York Times

The present mayor, Gerald D. Jennings, an ex-teacher, is a progressive and of a different breed; yet he's Irish, Catholic, Democratic and as usual unbeatable.

The New York Times - Books

"Brideshead Revisited" (1981), starring Jeremy Irons, is the best of a different breed of mini-series: the lush British literary adaptation, the kind of production in which even the cinematography seems to have a high thread count.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Would he turn his attention to a different breed of athlete?

The New York Times - Sports

But the Gastwerk was also designed to cater to a different breed of hotel guest - the day guest.

The Guardian - Travel

Perhaps this domestic-terrorism-blogger novel — the first significant domestic-terrorism-blogger novel — is meant for a different breed of blogger.

The New Yorker

The ad slogan of the 1960s, "A different breed of cat," was a forerunner of the current "Alive" theme that emphasized the emotional qualities of the cars and brand, Mr. Dundore said in a telephone interview.

The New York Times

Richard Widmark, who died at the age of ninety-three, was a different breed of actor.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "of a different breed" to emphasize that someone or something possesses unique qualities or characteristics that set them apart from others in a noteworthy way. For example, "This artist is of a different breed, blending classical techniques with modern sensibilities."

Common error

Avoid using "of a different breed" when simply indicating a minor difference. The phrase is best reserved for instances where the distinction is significant and noteworthy, implying superior or unique qualities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of a different breed" functions as a qualifier, often used to describe a noun or pronoun that possesses unique, distinct, or exceptional qualities. Examples from Ludwig highlight its use in describing people, products, or concepts that stand apart from the norm.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "of a different breed" is a common expression used to describe someone or something that is unique or exceptional. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical standing and widespread applicability across various contexts, most notably in News & Media. While it generally carries a positive connotation, it's important to ensure that its use appropriately reflects a significant distinction. Remember to use the phrase when highlighting unique attributes and consider alternatives like "a different kind" or "a unique type" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a different kind

Focuses on the aspect of variety in type, less emphasis on inherent nature.

a unique type

Highlights singularity, emphasizing being one of a kind.

in a league of its own

Emphasizes superiority and unmatched status.

cut from a different cloth

Implies having different qualities or character, often suggesting moral superiority.

one of a kind

Focuses on being unique and without equal.

a different caliber

Implies a difference in quality or ability.

a rare species

Highlights the scarcity and special nature of something.

set apart

Emphasizes being distinct and separate from others.

a different animal

Suggests something is fundamentally different in nature.

a different kettle of fish

Indicates a situation or thing is entirely different from what was previously discussed.

FAQs

How can I use "of a different breed" in a sentence?

You can use "of a different breed" to describe someone or something unique or exceptional. For example, "The new CEO is "of a different breed", bringing innovative ideas and a fresh perspective to the company".

What can I say instead of "of a different breed"?

You can use alternatives like "a different kind", "a unique type", or "in a league of its own" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "of a different breed"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that someone or something stands out significantly from others due to distinct qualities or characteristics. It implies a notable difference that sets them apart.

Is "of a different breed" a positive or negative expression?

It's generally a positive expression, implying that the subject is superior or exceptional in some way. However, context is crucial; sometimes it can be used neutrally to simply indicate difference without implying judgment.