on different scales

USAGE SUMMARY

"on different scales" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a comparison between two distinct things. For example: "The effects of stress can be seen on different scales, from the individual level to the societal level."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Interaction tests on different scales differ because they are testing different null hypotheses.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Where continuous outcomes are pooled on different scales, standardised mean differences will be used.

BMJ Open

When similar outcomes were measured on different scales, we used the standardised mean difference (SMD) with its 95% CI.

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews

In the literature one can find descriptions of established vegetation models for use on different scales [8 11].

Carbon Balance and Management

In the literature one can find descriptions of established vegetation models for use on different scales [ 8- 11].

Carbon Balance and Management

Standardised mean differences (SMDs) were used because the studies measured the outcomes on different scales (WOMAC and VAS).

BMJ Open

All on different scales too.

The Guardian

On different scales, both Obama and Romney are clearly right.

The New York Times

Being experimental with the application of paint can help you create flowing lines on different scales.

The Guardian - Arts

Nonetheless, Chrysler and Ford face a similar challenge, if on different scales, analysts say.

The New York Times

Statisticians often caution against comparing results of tests that are scored on different scales.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing phenomena, use "on different scales" to highlight that these are not just quantitatively different, but also qualitatively distinct due to their size or scope. For example, comparing the impact of a local event versus a global one.

Common error

Avoid using "on different scales" when you simply mean "different scopes". Scale refers to the relative size or extent, while scope refers to the breadth or range of something. Use "on different scales" when the size is the key differentiator, not just the variety of things included.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on different scales" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the degree or extent to which something occurs. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in English. The examples show its role in comparing phenomena by magnitude or scope.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on different scales" is a versatile phrase used to compare phenomena by highlighting differences in size, magnitude, or extent. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. While suitable for both neutral and formal communication, it's crucial to differentiate between scale and scope to ensure accurate usage. When seeking alternatives, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey, whether it's separateness ("on distinct scales"), variability ("on varying scales"), or hierarchy ("across different levels"). The examples show that the expression is very frequent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on distinct scales

Focuses on the separateness and clarity of the differences.

on varying scales

Emphasizes the variability or fluctuation in the scales being considered.

on diverse scales

Highlights the variety or range of scales involved.

across different levels

Highlights a hierarchical aspect to the scales, suggesting levels of organization or importance.

at different magnitudes

Refers more directly to size or intensity, implying a quantitative difference.

in different degrees

Focuses on the intensity or extent of a quality or action.

in different proportions

Focuses on the relative size or extent of something compared to something else.

on multiple levels

Indicates that something is happening or being considered at more than one level.

in different dimensions

Suggests a difference in the aspects or features being measured.

at different grades

Implies a hierarchical or ranking system where scales represent different levels of quality or intensity.

FAQs

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

Use "on different scales" to indicate that two things are similar but differ in their size, magnitude, or scope. For example, "The challenges faced by small businesses and multinational corporations exist "on different levels"".

What is a good alternative to "on different scales"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "at different magnitudes", "in different proportions", or "across different levels" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "at different scales" instead of "on different scales"?

While "on different scales" is more common, "at different scales" could be acceptable in some contexts, though it may sound less natural. "On" emphasizes the platform or context in which the scales exist, while "at" might refer to specific points along those scales. "On" is generally preferred.

What's the difference between "on different scales" and "on different levels"?

"On different scales" usually refers to differences in size or magnitude. "On different levels", on the other hand, often refers to differences in hierarchy or abstraction. While there's overlap, scales suggest quantitative differences and levels suggest qualitative or hierarchical ones.