sets us apart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sets us apart" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It means something that distinguishes or differentiates a person or group from others. Example: Our company's commitment to sustainable practices is what sets us apart from our competitors.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What sets us apart from the animal kingdom is the use of symbolic language.

Huffington Post

"That alone sets us apart".

The New York Times

"This is really what sets us apart".

The New Yorker

"She's what sets us apart.

The Guardian - Tech

That sets us apart from our competitors.

Harvard Business Review

What sets us apart from other animals?

The New York Times

But what is it exactly that sets us apart?

Independent

"It sets us apart and it makes it more special".

Independent

That fundamental structure is what sets us apart from machines.

The Washington Post

That, too, is what sets us apart as a nation.

The Guardian

CNR's personalized student services program sets us apart from other colleges and academic units on campus.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sets us apart" to establish a clear distinction from competitors. Showcase unique attributes in order to avoid being perceived as a generic or undifferentiated brand.

Common error

Avoid overuse of "sets us apart" in marketing materials. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your claims sound generic. Instead, focus on showcasing the unique qualities with specific examples and data.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sets us apart" functions as a verbal phrase that identifies a distinctive quality or characteristic. It is often used to differentiate a subject from others, as highlighted by Ludwig, which notes its frequent usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

24%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

12%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sets us apart" is a versatile and commonly used expression that highlights the unique qualities or advantages of a subject. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including news, academia, and business. The phrase aims to differentiate and emphasize what makes something special. While effective, it's important to use it judiciously and support claims of uniqueness with concrete examples. Alternatives such as "distinguishes us" or "makes us unique" can be used for variety, but "sets us apart" remains a strong choice for conveying distinctiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinguishes us

Focuses on the act of making something different or noticeable; it's a direct synonym with less emphasis on advantage.

differentiates us

Highlights the act of identifying differences, often used in comparative contexts.

makes us unique

Emphasizes the quality of being the only one of its kind, irreplaceable.

is our distinguishing feature

Points to a specific attribute that makes the subject stand out.

gives us a competitive edge

Highlights how a specific attribute provides an advantage over others.

is our defining characteristic

Focuses on a key aspect that encapsulates the essence of the subject.

is what makes us special

Emphasizes the endearing and valuable qualities of the subject.

is our trademark

Highlights a distinctive feature strongly associated with the subject, implying recognition.

is our signature

Similar to trademark, but often used for less formal contexts and more personal attributes.

separates us from the rest

Indicates a clear division from a larger group, implying superior qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "sets us apart" in a sentence?

You can use "sets us apart" to highlight a unique quality or advantage. For example, "Our commitment to customer service is what "sets us apart" from the competition".

What can I say instead of "sets us apart"?

You can use alternatives like "distinguishes us", "makes us unique", or "is our distinguishing feature depending on the context".

Is it better to say "sets us apart" or "makes us different"?

"Sets us apart" is generally stronger because it implies a significant advantage or distinction. "Makes us different" is a more general statement of non-conformity.

How does "sets us apart" differ from "gives us an edge"?

"Sets us apart" emphasizes uniqueness, whereas "gives us an edge" highlights a competitive advantage. The former focuses on distinctiveness, while the latter focuses on superiority in a competitive environment.