serious difference between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serious difference between" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing notable distinctions or contrasts between two or more subjects. Example: "There is a serious difference between the two approaches to problem-solving that we need to consider."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

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

The Guardian

And there is no serious difference between margin and profit.

The Guardian - Opinion

The more complex answer would recognise that any serious difference between human beings in a society raises broadly political questions.

The Guardian

There's a serious difference between being conservative (as I am) and conservatives who foster increasing income disparity.

The New York Times - Books

"There is a serious difference between our situation and any other case, in that we're returning to a place from which we've been exiled for over a century," Mr. Haozous said as a customer strolled past a wall of photos showing stone-faced Apaches, some draped in traditional garb and others in stiff suits, gazing out on the room.

The New York Times

There's a serious difference between #uncomfortable and #juststupidity.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Despite many serious differences between them, they united to save civilization.

The New York Times

"I will not allow any serious differences between Arafat and me".

The New York Times

"There are very serious differences between the Eastern Europeans, the Jewish claimants and the plaintiffs' attorneys," said Edward Fagan, one of the lawyers.

The New York Times

"If he walks out of this energy crisis showing leadership, he's got an opportunity more than anybody else to show that there are some serious differences between our party and the Bush White House".

The New York Times

Ever since 2004, the year of the great enlargement, both the "old" and the "new" Europeans chose to behave as though there were really no serious differences between them, and the few differences that remained would soon melt away.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "serious difference between", ensure that you clearly define both subjects being compared to highlight the distinction effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "serious difference between" for trivial matters. Reserve it for significant distinctions that have real consequences or implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious difference between" functions as a noun phrase used to highlight a significant distinction or contrast between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

6%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serious difference between" is a grammatically correct way to highlight notable distinctions, frequently appearing in News & Media and Science contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s used to emphasize important disparities. Related phrases include "significant disparity between" and "major distinction between". A key writing tip is to ensure the 'seriousness' of the difference is justified and that you clearly define the compared subjects. Avoiding overuse in trivial contexts is equally important. The phrase is suitable for formal and neutral registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant disparity between

Emphasizes a notable inequality or unlikeness.

major distinction between

Highlights a key difference that sets things apart.

substantial contrast between

Focuses on the degree of dissimilarity.

marked divergence between

Indicates a noticeable separation or deviation.

considerable variation between

Stresses the amount of change or difference.

pronounced difference between

Highlights a very noticeable or obvious difference.

clear demarcation between

Implies a distinct boundary or separation.

noticeable contrast between

Suggests an easily observed dissimilarity.

important divergence between

Emphasizes the significance of the differing paths or opinions.

real distinction between

Indicates a genuine and substantive difference.

FAQs

How can I use "serious difference between" in a sentence?

Use "serious difference between" to highlight substantial distinctions. For example: "There is a "serious difference between" theory and practice."

What is a good alternative to "serious difference between"?

Alternatives include "significant disparity between", "major distinction between", or "substantial contrast between" depending on the context.

What’s the difference between "serious difference between" and "slight difference between"?

"Serious difference between" emphasizes a substantial distinction with important implications, while "slight difference between" indicates a minor or negligible distinction.

Is it better to say "major difference" or "serious difference"?

Both "major difference" and "serious difference" can be used, but "serious difference" often implies that the distinction has significant consequences or importance. "Major difference" is more general.