serious difference

USAGE SUMMARY

"serious difference" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it, for instance, in a sentence such as: "The two groups disagreed on the issue, and the debate revealed a serious difference in their points of view."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

It is time, as well, for the Jewish community as a whole to relate differently to those in their midst who have a serious difference of opinion with Israel.

Huffington Post

"This is a serious difference between us," she said.

The Guardian

And there is no serious difference between margin and profit.

The Guardian - Opinion

To make any serious difference, there has to be action by ministers.

The Guardian - Opinion

There are now signs of a serious difference in approach between Britain and America.

The Guardian - Opinion

So there is no serious difference in healthcare between for-profit and not for profit organisations.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

And there are very serious differences.

The New York Times

"There were no serious differences," he said.

The New York Times

So we still have some serious differences.

The New York Times

"Differences, even serious differences, still exist," he said.

The New York Times

We have serious differences that have grown over time.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "serious difference", ensure that the context clearly explains the nature and implications of the difference being highlighted. Provide specific details to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "serious difference" to describe minor or trivial distinctions. Ensure the difference genuinely has important consequences or implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious difference" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "serious" modifies the noun "difference". It typically identifies a noteworthy point of divergence, disagreement, or contrast. Ludwig AI confirms its standard usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serious difference" is a common and grammatically correct way to highlight a significant distinction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "significant discrepancy" or "notable divergence" exist, "serious difference" directly emphasizes the importance of the distinction. Remember to avoid overstating the significance when using the phrase, and ensure the context clearly supports your claim. By doing so, you'll effectively communicate the weight and implications of the difference being discussed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key difference

Identifies the most crucial distinction among several possible differences.

meaningful distinction

Highlights that the difference is relevant and important.

important dissimilarity

Stresses the relevance of the contrast between the two things being compared.

significant discrepancy

This phrase focuses on the measurable or observable difference between two things.

notable divergence

This highlights a clear departure from a common path or standard.

marked contrast

Emphasizes a striking dissimilarity, often visual or easily perceived.

substantial variation

Indicates a considerable degree of change or difference within a set of data or observations.

material variation

Indicates a change that is significant enough to have consequences or impact decisions.

considerable disparity

Focuses on inequality or disproportion between two things.

major point of contention

Highlights a significant disagreement or conflict regarding a specific issue.

FAQs

How to use "serious difference" in a sentence?

You can use "serious difference" to highlight a significant distinction between two or more things. For example, "There is a "serious difference" between their approaches to the problem".

What can I say instead of "serious difference"?

You can use alternatives like "significant discrepancy", "notable divergence", or "marked contrast" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "serious difference" or "sever difference"?

"Serious difference" is the correct and more commonly used phrase. "Sever difference" is not a standard English expression.

What's the difference between "serious difference" and "major difference"?

While both phrases indicate a significant distinction, "serious difference" often implies that the difference has important implications or consequences, whereas "major difference" simply emphasizes the scale or magnitude of the difference.