slightly different from

USAGE SUMMARY

"slightly different from" is a correct phrase in written English.
You can use it when describing something that has subtle differences. For example, "This painting is slightly different from the one I purchased last year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

FRED MARTIN: My story is slightly different from John.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Each planet also looks slightly different from the others.

Cornell University

Donaghy's situation is slightly different from his co-defendants'.

The New York Times

"I'm slightly different from Zane," she says carefully.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A water braise is slightly different from a stock braise.

The New York Times - Magazine

AskIt's technology is slightly different from that of Ask Jeeves.

The New York Times

It turned out slightly different from my original drawings.

The New York Times

Therefore, every organism produces offspring that are slightly different from the parents.

Harvard University

And when I put it together, it was slightly different from the one I found.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But the plan he announced today is slightly different from the one he spoke of then.

The New York Times

He is slightly different from just playing up top all the time".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slightly different from" to highlight subtle distinctions when comparing two or more things, ensuring clarity and avoiding exaggeration.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly different from" when the differences are significant. Opt for phrases like "significantly different from" or "completely different from" to accurately reflect the magnitude of the distinction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly different from" functions as a prepositional phrase used for making comparisons. It indicates that two or more things share similarities but possess minor distinctions. Ludwig examples demonstrate this in various contexts, highlighting subtle differences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slightly different from" is a versatile phrase used to indicate minor distinctions between comparable items. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, including news, academic writing, and scientific publications. While highly common, it's essential to use it accurately, avoiding overstatement when differences are more significant. Alternatives such as "a bit different from" or "somewhat different from" can offer similar nuances. Recognizing the appropriate context and degree of difference will ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

differs in nuance from

Emphasizes that the difference is in the subtleties.

marginally distinct from

Emphasizes a very small degree of difference.

exhibits minor deviations from

Points out small departures from a standard or norm.

subtly varied compared to

Focuses on the subtle variations between two things.

somewhat dissimilar to

Highlights a moderate degree of dissimilarity.

not quite the same as

Indicates a difference without specifying its extent.

a tad different than

Informal way to express a slight difference.

bears a resemblance to, but isn't identical

Acknowledges similarity but clarifies a lack of exact equivalence.

shares characteristics with, yet diverges from

Highlights shared features alongside points of divergence.

bears a superficial similarity to, but is ultimately distinct from

Suggests that while there are some similarities at first glance, the items being compared are fundamentally different.

FAQs

How can I use "slightly different from" in a sentence?

Use "slightly different from" to indicate a minor distinction. For example, "The new model is "slightly different from" its predecessor in terms of fuel efficiency".

What are some alternatives to "slightly different from"?

Consider using phrases like "a bit different from", "somewhat different from", or "marginally different from" to convey similar meanings.

Is it more appropriate to say "slightly different from" or "slightly different than"?

While both are sometimes used, "slightly different from" is generally considered more grammatically correct and is preferred in formal writing. Using "than" is common, but less accepted in formal contexts.

What is the difference between "slightly different from" and "significantly different from"?

"Slightly different from" indicates a minor variation, while "significantly different from" implies a notable and important distinction. The choice depends on the degree of difference you want to emphasize.