take a different approach

USAGE SUMMARY

"take a different approach" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when referring to the need for a new, potentially better or even innovative, direction for a particular task, decision, or problem. For example: "If we want to find a way out of this situation, we should take a different approach than we have used before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But many parents take a different approach.

The New York Times

Labour will take a different approach.

The Guardian

Others, such as Xavier Veilhan, take a different approach.

The Guardian - Arts

But he indicated he might take a different approach.

The New York Times

But we will take a different approach to the Tories.

The Guardian - Opinion

"If not, we really have to take a different approach".

The New York Times

The Bush administration's new economic policy team will have to take a different approach.

The New York Times

Why should Woods take a different approach, and mess with success?

The New York Times - Sports

Now, with the rise of G.M. and Chrysler, Ford was forced to take a different approach.

The New Yorker

That means we have to take a different approach to dry cleaning".

The New York Times

I had to go back and start at the beginning and take a different approach".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you've encountered repeated failures with an existing strategy, use "take a different approach" to signal a necessary shift towards new methods and increased chances of success.

Common error

Avoid using "take a different approach" as a mere filler. Ensure there's a clear reason for needing a new method, such as documented failures or new insights that warrant a change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take a different approach" functions as a verb phrase, often serving as the predicate of a sentence. It indicates a decision or intention to use a method or strategy that deviates from what has been previously used. Ludwig confirms that this is a valid and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take a different approach" is a versatile and frequently used expression that suggests a shift in strategy or method. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and applicable in numerous contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific domains. When using this phrase, ensure that there is a valid justification for changing the current method. Alternatives include "adopt an alternative strategy" or "implement a new plan" for formal settings. This expression is a valuable tool for signaling adaptability and innovation in various forms of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

change your strategy

Directly indicates a change in the planned method.

implement a new plan

Highlights putting a different plan into action.

adopt an alternative strategy

Focuses on adopting a defined plan.

alter your methodology

Suggests a modification in the procedures or methods used.

pursue an alternate route

Suggests exploring another way to achieve a goal.

try a new tack

Uses the metaphor of sailing to suggest a change in direction.

pivot to a different method

Implies a significant change in direction or strategy.

experiment with another technique

Focuses on trying a different technique or method.

shift your perspective

Emphasizes changing one's viewpoint or way of thinking.

rethink your game plan

Implies reconsidering and revising the overall plan.

FAQs

How can I use "take a different approach" in a sentence?

You can use "take a different approach" to suggest trying a new method, for instance: "If the current marketing strategy isn't working, we need to "take a different approach".".

What's a more formal way to say "take a different approach"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "adopt an alternative strategy" or "implement a new plan".

Is "take a different approach" suitable for academic writing?

Yes, "take a different approach" is suitable for academic writing. However, ensure the context is clear and the need for a different method is well-justified. You might also consider alternatives like "pursue an alternate route" for added formality.

What are some common synonyms for "take a different approach"?

Common synonyms include "try a new tack", "change your strategy", and "rethink your game plan".