something else entirely

USAGE SUMMARY

"something else entirely" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are contrasting one thing to something distinct from it. Example sentence: "I was expecting a dinner of pasta, but it turned out to be something else entirely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Something else entirely?

The New York Times

Or something else entirely?

The New York Times - Sports

This was something else entirely.

The Guardian - Music

That's something else entirely.

The New York Times

The business plan is something else entirely.

The Guardian - Music

It should be something else entirely.

The New York Times

But building one is something else entirely.

The Economist

The safety is something else entirely.

The New Yorker

Preparation, cut or something else entirely?

The New York Times - Books

"But the movie is something else entirely.

The New Yorker

Changing the culture is something else entirely.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "something else entirely" to clearly signal a contrast between what was expected or previously discussed and the actual situation.

Common error

Avoid using "something else entirely" when a simpler, more direct comparison would suffice. It adds unnecessary weight to straightforward distinctions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something else entirely" functions as a predicative expression, modifying a noun or clause to indicate a complete departure from what was previously stated or expected. Ludwig AI shows this phrase is commonly used to highlight contrasts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "something else entirely" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize a significant difference or contrast. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively signals a departure from what was initially expected. While versatile enough for both formal and informal contexts, it is primarily found in News & Media. Related phrases include "something completely different" and "an entirely different matter". When using this phrase, ensure it truly underscores a notable distinction and avoid overuse in simpler comparisons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

something completely different

This alternative emphasizes the distinct nature of the alternative, using "completely" for added emphasis.

an entirely different matter

This alternative focuses on the subject or issue being different, emphasizing the significance of the distinction.

a whole other thing

This phrase is more informal, emphasizing that something is a separate and distinct entity.

something of another kind

This alternative highlights the difference in type or category.

a different kettle of fish

This idiom indicates that something is significantly different and should be treated as a separate issue.

a different animal

This idiom suggests that something is fundamentally different in nature or character.

a different story

This implies a change in circumstances, facts, or perspective, making the situation distinct.

on another level

This alternative suggests that something is not just different but also of a higher degree or intensity.

a completely new ballgame

An idiom that implies a dramatic change that alters the existing rules and situation.

something beyond comparison

This alternative emphasizes that the degree of difference is so great that comparison is impossible.

FAQs

How can I use "something else entirely" in a sentence?

You can use "something else entirely" to emphasize that something is completely different from what was previously mentioned or expected. For example, "I thought I was getting a small bonus, but the amount was "something else entirely"."

What are some alternatives to "something else entirely"?

Some alternatives include "something completely different", "an entirely different matter", or "a different kettle of fish", depending on the context and level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "something else entirely"?

It's appropriate to use "something else entirely" when you want to highlight a significant difference or contrast between two things. It suggests that the second thing is not just slightly different, but fundamentally distinct.

Is "something else entirely" formal or informal?

"Something else entirely" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is generally more suited for situations where you want to add emphasis or a touch of drama to the contrast you're making.