something entirely different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something entirely different" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a subject or object is completely distinct from what was previously mentioned or considered. Example: "While the first proposal focused on cost-cutting measures, the second one presented something entirely different: a vision for growth and innovation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

She was something entirely different.

The Guardian - Books

But this undertaking was something entirely different.

The New York Times - Magazine

Or is it something entirely different?

The New York Times - Books

But government is something entirely different.

The New Yorker

For me, "normal" is something entirely different.

The New York Times

It's very intimate; it's something entirely different".

The New Yorker

Last Sunday, though, something entirely different happened.

The Guardian

Torching my oven is something entirely different".

The New Yorker

The Architecture Studio promises something entirely different.

The Guardian - Arts

But homemade mayonnaise is something entirely different.

The New York Times - Food

He had something entirely different in mind.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "something entirely different" to clearly signal a shift in topic or perspective to prevent confusion. For example, when contrasting two approaches, this phrase can provide emphasis.

Common error

Avoid using "something entirely different" too frequently in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your language with synonyms like "a completely different approach" or "a whole new concept".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something entirely different" functions as a nominal phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a verb, to denote that a subject is markedly dissimilar from another. It is commonly used to highlight contrasts or introduce novel concepts, as demonstrated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "something entirely different" is a phrase used to indicate that a subject or object is markedly dissimilar from another. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's essential to avoid overuse and be mindful of contexts where simpler language might suffice. The phrase's neutral register makes it appropriate for a wide range of writing, and alternatives like "something completely distinct" can prevent redundancy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

something completely different

Replaces "entirely" with "completely", emphasizing the thoroughness of the difference.

something totally different

Uses "totally" as a synonym for "entirely", intensifying the distinction.

a completely distinct thing

Highlights the separateness and uniqueness of the subject.

an entirely new concept

Focuses on the novelty of the idea being introduced.

something of another kind

Emphasizes the qualitative difference between items.

something radically altered

Stresses the depth and impact of the change or difference.

a whole new ballgame

Idiomatic expression indicating a completely new situation with different rules.

a different kettle of fish

Another idiomatic expression highlighting a difference in nature or category.

a departure from the norm

Indicates a deviation from what is standard or expected.

a sea change

Figurative expression emphasizing a substantial transformation.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "something entirely different" in a sentence?

Use "something entirely different" to highlight a contrast or introduce a distinctly new element. For example: "The first plan focused on cost reduction, but this new proposal offers "something entirely different": a path to innovation."

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "something entirely different"?

Alternatives include "something completely distinct", "a whole new concept", or "a different kettle of fish", depending on the specific context.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "something entirely different"?

While grammatically correct, using "something entirely different" can be redundant if the difference is already implied. In such cases, a simpler construction might be more effective.

How does "something entirely different" compare to "something slightly different"?

"Something entirely different" indicates a significant and fundamental change, whereas "something slightly different" suggests a minor adjustment or variation.