something very different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something very different" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a particular item, idea, or situation is significantly unlike another. Example: "The new product we are launching is something very different from what we have offered in the past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's something very different".

The New York Times - Books

Something very different is happening.

The Guardian - Books

Instead, something very different happened.

The Guardian - Opinion

I saw something very different.

The New York Times - Arts

Younger, trendier people want something very different.

Independent

"But he does something very different.

Independent

"I thought he was something very different.

The New Yorker

But journalistically, they were something very different.

The New York Times

The "Wolfpack" case is something very different.

The New Yorker

I was dealing with something very different.

The New York Times

"It's about something very different," she said.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "something very different" to emphasize a notable contrast or deviation from the expected or established norm. It's effective when you want to highlight the uniqueness of a subject.

Common error

While versatile, using "something very different" repeatedly in formal writing can dilute its impact. Vary your language with synonyms like "distinct" or "dissimilar" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something very different" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies an entity or concept that is notably dissimilar to another. As supported by Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "something very different" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a notable contrast or deviation. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples reveals its frequent use in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider the formality of your writing and choose synonyms like "distinct" or "dissimilar" in more formal settings to enhance stylistic variation. Be mindful of its strength, as it emphasizes a substantial difference. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

something quite distinct

Emphasizes the clarity and recognizability of the difference.

a markedly different thing

Highlights the obvious and easily noticeable nature of the difference.

an entirely dissimilar matter

Focuses on the complete lack of resemblance between two things.

a whole new ballgame

An idiomatic expression suggesting a completely altered situation.

a different kettle of fish

An idiomatic expression highlighting a clear difference in kind or category.

something of a different order

Implies a difference in magnitude or significance.

something poles apart

Emphasizes that two or more things are drastically different.

a world apart

Suggests that two things or concepts are fundamentally disconnected and incomparable.

not in the same league

Highlights that the subject in question does not reach the same standards or caliber as something else.

a shift in paradigm

Emphasizes how a change or alteration represents a new and innovative way to think about things.

FAQs

How can I use "something very different" in a sentence?

You can use "something very different" to highlight a contrast or deviation. For example, "This year's conference will offer "something very different" from previous years, focusing on interactive workshops."

What phrases are similar to "something very different"?

Alternatives include "something quite distinct", "an entirely dissimilar matter", or "a different kettle of fish", depending on the context.

Is "something very different" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "something very different" may sound less formal than alternatives like "a significant departure" or "a marked contrast". Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "something very different" and "something slightly different"?

"Something very different" emphasizes a substantial contrast, whereas "something slightly different" indicates a minor variation. The choice depends on the degree of difference you want to convey.