on a different schedule

USAGE SUMMARY

"on a different schedule" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the timing of a particular activity compared with the regular timing of other activities. For example: "The school day will be conducted on a different schedule this week due to the holiday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

He's on a different schedule, one that favors process over policy.

HuffPost

Is sharing office gossip still O.K.? How many times can I tell them that enjoying life is enough and that no one need feel sorry for you because you're on a different schedule?

The New York Times

Yes, Nokia only shipped 11.9 million smartphones in the quarter — less than one-third of Apple's number; the numbers for RIM, which reports on a different schedule, are not likely to be encouraging, either; and HTC has stopped giving out sales volumes altogether.

TechCrunch

We're on a different schedule.

The New York Times

Here at the Met everything and everyone is on a different schedule".

The New York Times - Arts

"You're on a different schedule than the rest of the team," Novak said.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

We therefore decided that, while evaluating these drugs in gastroesophageal cancer patients, we would take the opportunity to explore a different schedule, modelled on the attractive 2-weekly FOLFIRI regimen now well established in colorectal cancer.

British Journal of Cancer

Inconsistent Sleeping Schedule -- Having a work week is good for us in a lot of ways, but if we operate on a totally different schedule on the weekends we confuse our natural rhythms [4].

Huffington Post

The Czech Republic observes Summer Time, the European equivalent of Daylight Saving Time, but on a slightly different schedule than the United States.

WikiHow

Both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland observe Summer Time, or Daylight Saving Time--but on a slightly different schedule from the United States.

WikiHow

Teachers College operates on a different registration schedule than the Columbia University-Morningside Columbia University-Morningside

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing processes, clarify if the "different schedule" is temporary or permanent to avoid confusion.

Common error

Always specify how the schedule is different. Vague use of the phrase without context can leave readers confused about the actual variation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a different schedule" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, adjective, or noun. It indicates that an activity or entity operates according to a timetable or plan that deviates from the norm. Ludwig examples confirm this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on a different schedule" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate a deviation from a standard or expected timetable. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and commonly found in diverse contexts ranging from news and media to scientific and academic writings. Usage tips emphasize clarifying how the schedule differs to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "on a different timetable" for planned sequences or "following a different rhythm" for naturally varying paces. Overall, understanding its function and purpose contributes to clarity and precision in written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a different timetable

Emphasizes a planned sequence of events that differs from the norm.

on an alternative schedule

Highlights the presence of a secondary or less conventional arrangement.

following a different rhythm

Suggests a natural or inherent variance in pacing.

operating on a unique timeline

Implies a distinct and individualized progression of events.

out of sync with the usual routine

Conveys a lack of coordination with established practices.

not aligned with standard hours

Focuses on a divergence from conventional working times.

deviating from the normal program

Highlights a departure from an expected course of action.

keeping different hours

Simply states that someone's working times are outside the norm.

working asynchronously

Implies a lack of simultaneity or direct coordination.

not on the same wavelength

More colloquial; suggests a difference in understanding or perspective that causes a lack of coordination.

FAQs

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

You can use "on a different schedule" to indicate that someone or something operates with a timetable that is not standard or typical. For example, "Due to the holidays, the office will be operating "on a different schedule" next week."

What are some alternatives to saying "on a different schedule"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "on an alternative schedule", "following a different rhythm", or "operating on a unique timeline".

Is it better to say "on a different schedule" or "on a separate schedule"?

While both phrases are correct, "on a different schedule" generally implies a variance in timing, while "on a separate schedule" suggests completely distinct, unrelated timings. The better choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when someone says they are "on a different schedule"?

It typically means their daily or weekly routine, particularly concerning work or sleep, does not align with what is considered typical or standard. This could be due to work shifts, personal preferences, or other external factors.