show some difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show some difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that there is a distinction or variation between two or more things. Example: "In the study, the researchers aimed to show some difference in the results between the two groups."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The U.S. classic races show some difference.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Since almost all minerals show some difference in conductivity, it would appear to represent the universal concentrating method.

Wills' Mineral Processing Technology An Introduction to the Practical Aspects of Ore Treatment and Mineral Recovery

His challenge will be to show some difference between himself and the alternatives, whether that comes in the form of Mr. Perry, Mr. Abbott or someone else.

The New York Times

Analysis of the data showed that: (a) there is N S asymmetry in the equatorial rotation of the Hα filaments and the long-lived magnetic features; (b) for both solar cycles the long-lived magnetic features of both polarities have similar behavior; (c) in the solar cycle 20 the long-lived magnetic features of both polarities vary in phase to each other but show some difference during cycle 21.

Advances in Space Research

The curves in Fig. 8 also show some difference in offending frequency.

Crime Science

Its two subspecies appear to be distinct vocally, and also show some difference in mtDNA sequences; they are maintained at subspecies rank pending further research.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

These results show some differences and some similarities in audiologists' preferences towards patient-centredness from different countries (see figure 1).

BMJ Open

But some analysts say that Catholic voters do show some differences.

The New York Times

In addition, obtained values of heat transfer coefficient show some differences with literature correlations.

Applied Thermal Engineering

We further show some differences in initiation of complement activation pathways between these viruses.

Molecular Immunology

Tom Sanders, a professor of nutrition at King's College London, said the research did show some differences.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "show some difference" when you want to point out a distinction between two or more things, but without necessarily implying a strong opposition or contradiction. It's suitable when the differences are subtle or not the main focus.

Common error

Avoid using "show some difference" when the differences are actually substantial or critical. In such cases, stronger phrases like "demonstrate a significant contrast" or "reveal a major disparity" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show some difference" functions as a verb phrase used to indicate that there is a distinction or variation between two or more things. It suggests a comparison where some level of dissimilarity is evident. As Ludwig indicates, this phrase is considered correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

24%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "show some difference" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to indicate a distinction or variation between two or more things. While not as common as other similar phrases, it's versatile and appears in various contexts, particularly in scientific and news-related content. As Ludwig confirms, its neutral tone makes it appropriate for both formal and informal writing, although stronger or more precise alternatives might be preferred in certain academic or professional settings. When using this phrase, ensure the context aligns with its meaning of pointing out subtle variations rather than substantial contrasts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exhibit some variation

Replaces "difference" with "variation" offering a slightly more formal tone.

display some contrast

Uses "contrast" instead of "difference", highlighting the act of comparing distinct elements.

demonstrate a contrast

Similar to 'display some contrast' but uses 'demonstrate', emphasizing proof.

reveal a distinction

Replaces "show some" with "reveal a", focusing on uncovering an existing difference.

highlight a distinction

Focuses on making the difference more noticeable or prominent.

indicate a disparity

Employs "disparity" which suggests a more significant difference or inequality.

present some divergence

Utilizes "divergence", implying a branching out or deviation in different directions.

suggest a variation

Replaces "show some" with "suggest a", making the difference less definitive.

bear some dissimilarity

More formal and emphasizes the lack of similarity rather than the presence of difference.

reflect a deviation

Uses "deviation" to indicate a departure from a standard or norm.

FAQs

How can I use "show some difference" in a sentence?

You can use "show some difference" to indicate a distinction or variation between two or more things. For example: "The two approaches "show some difference" in their methodologies".

What are some alternatives to "show some difference"?

Alternatives include "exhibit some variation", "display some contrast", or "reveal a distinction", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "show some difference" formal or informal?

"Show some difference" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferable in academic or professional writing.

What's the difference between ""show some difference"" and "demonstrate a difference"?

"Show some difference" suggests a simple indication of variation, while "demonstrate a difference" implies providing evidence or proof of that variation.