plainly different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "plainly different" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is clearly or obviously distinct from something else. Example: "The two designs are plainly different, showcasing unique styles and features that set them apart."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Things are plainly different this time.

The Economist

Plainly, different countries still have different priorities.

The Economist

Caucuses are also plainly different from primaries.

The New York Times

The Las Vegas case was plainly different, he said.

The New York Times

In current practice these curves are generated by ad hoc random processes, and in close-up views their arrangement appears plainly different from real hair.

Cornell University

There's no doubt that each piece is plainly different; but it's as if Mr. Battle were using several different ways and several different scores to say the same thing.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

However, when analysing levels of self-reported neighbourhood social capital and general social trust in different housing areas, these plainly differed depending on the income distribution of each housing area as obtained from Statistics Sweden.

BMC Public Health

But Islam plainly is different.

The Economist

With philosophy, however, it is plainly a different story.

The New York Times

"If they do come up with statements which quite plainly are different to those given to us by James Murdoch, we would want to hear James Murdoch's response to that.

The Guardian

"Stupor is plainly a different thing from tremor; it signifies blank wonder, an astonishment that strikes us dumb, amazement absolute" (p. 26).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "plainly different" to emphasize an obvious and easily noticeable distinction. It adds a level of directness to your writing when highlighting contrasts.

Common error

Avoid using "plainly different" when the difference is subjective or based on opinion. This phrase is best suited for factual, observable distinctions rather than personal preferences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "plainly different" functions as an adverbial intensifier ("plainly") modifying an adjective ("different"). It underscores the obviousness of a distinction. As Ludwig indicates, this phrase is correctly used to highlight clear contrasts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

30%

Science

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "plainly different" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize an obvious distinction. As Ludwig confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Academia, and Science. It's important to reserve its use for factual and observable contrasts, avoiding subjective opinions. Alternatives like "clearly distinct" or "obviously dissimilar" can be used for similar effects. Remember, "plainly different" is most effective when the difference is, well, plainly obvious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clearly distinct

Emphasizes clarity and ease of perceiving the difference.

obviously dissimilar

Highlights the lack of resemblance in an evident manner.

patently distinct

Suggests the distinction is undeniable and self-evident.

readily distinguishable

Focuses on the ease with which one can differentiate between the items.

unmistakably diverse

Indicates a clear and unquestionable variety between the items.

markedly contrasting

Highlights the notable differences and opposition between the items.

noticeably disparate

Focuses on the easily observed lack of similarity.

distinctly varied

Emphasizes the clear and separate nature of the variations.

evidently unlike

Suggests the dissimilarity is apparent and easily understood.

demonstrably different

Highlights that the difference can be proven or shown.

FAQs

How can I use "plainly different" in a sentence?

You can use "plainly different" to emphasize an obvious contrast. For example, "The two approaches are "plainly different" in their methodologies and outcomes."

What are some alternatives to "plainly different"?

Alternatives include "clearly distinct", "obviously dissimilar", or "patently distinct". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "more plainly different"?

While grammatically correct, "more plainly different" is generally redundant. The word "plainly" already implies a high degree of obviousness. Using "clearly distinct" or "obviously dissimilar" may be a better choice.

What's the difference between "plainly different" and "slightly different"?

"Plainly different" indicates a significant and easily noticeable distinction, whereas "slightly different" suggests a minor or subtle variation. The choice depends on the magnitude of the difference you want to emphasize.