on a different scale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a different scale" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare two things that are significantly different in size, importance, or magnitude. Example: "The challenges we face in this project are on a different scale compared to our previous endeavors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are on a different scale, but they have one thing in common with football's supranational institutions.

The Guardian - Opinion

This rescue is on a different scale.

The Economist

Everything's on a different scale here.

The Guardian - Travel

But this is on a different scale.

The New York Times - Sports

This is poverty on a different scale.

The New York Times - Magazine

"This is on a different scale.

The New York Times - Sports

Technology just enables us to overshare on a different scale.

The New York Times - Magazine

This is rail travel on a different scale.

The Guardian - Travel

What I'm discussing is a barbecue on a different scale.

The Guardian - Opinion

The patterns we were studying were on a different scale.

The Guardian

But Croome was fiction on a different scale.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on a different scale", ensure that the comparison is clear and that the context highlights the specific aspect in which the scale differs. For instance, specify if you are referring to size, impact, or complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "on a different scale" simply as a fancier way of saying "different". Ensure that the difference is significant enough to warrant the emphasis on scale, rather than just using a simpler adjective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a different scale" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the extent or degree to which something differs. Ludwig shows that it highlights a difference in magnitude, importance, or scope between two things.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on a different scale" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize significant differences in magnitude, impact, or scope. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives exist, such as "of a different magnitude" or "on another level", the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring that the comparison is clear and the difference significant enough to warrant the emphasis on scale. The fact that Ludwig found so many examples is a sign of how widely this phrase is used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

of a different magnitude

Changes focus to the degree of difference, emphasizing the size or extent of the change.

on a wholly different scale

Emphasizes the completeness and totality of the difference.

on another level

Shifts the comparison to different tiers or stages, suggesting a qualitative difference rather than just a quantitative one.

in a different league

Emphasizes superiority or distinction in quality or performance.

of a different order

Highlights a fundamental difference in the kind or type of something.

on a completely different plane

Implies a shift to an entirely separate realm or dimension, often used for abstract concepts.

on a grander scale

Specifically emphasizes an increase in size or impressiveness.

of greater proportion

Highlights that something is larger or more significant in terms of its relative size or impact.

on an unprecedented scale

Emphasizes the novelty and unmatched nature of the magnitude involved.

in a different dimension

Implies that something is beyond our comprehension and has a different perspective.

FAQs

How can I use "on a different scale" in a sentence?

Use "on a different scale" to compare two things where one is significantly larger, more important, or more impactful than the other. For example: "The challenges of managing a small business are "on a different scale" compared to running a multinational corporation."

What phrases are similar to "on a different scale"?

Alternatives include "of a different magnitude", "on another level", or "in a different league". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "on a different scale of importance"?

Yes, "on a different scale of importance" is grammatically correct and specifies the aspect in which the scale differs. However, consider if a more concise phrasing like "of greater importance" would be more effective.

What is the difference between "on a different scale" and "on a larger scale"?

"On a larger scale" specifically implies an increase in size or scope. "On a different scale" is broader and can refer to differences in size, impact, complexity, or any other measurable dimension. Therefore, you can use "on a larger scale" if you are looking to increase the size.