technically different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "technically different" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing distinctions or variations that are based on technical criteria or specifications. Example: "While both devices serve similar purposes, they are technically different in terms of their underlying technology and functionality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"The guys aren't doing anything technically different.

Independent

This bomb was technically different, too more sophisticated.

The New Yorker

Even those audience members who are unaware of how the dancing is technically different can appreciate the way a distinctive expressiveness or technique permeates the performance.

The New York Times - Arts

And although a TV show is technically different in that scripts, direction and performances are created each year, this basic fear of deterioration still applies.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Nitpickers will suggest these variations are all technically different drinks, and should have their own names and sub-phyla; that's why they're called nitpickers.

The New York Times

By offering something technically different, the mirrorless camera provided second-tier firms with something to challenge the duopoly's long domination of the digital SLR business.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

The images are technically completely different from Fusco's prints.

The New Yorker

One of the rules Egan had while writing the book was that each of her characters had to be "technically, totally different" from all the others.

The New Yorker

They are technically a different sort of pastry, but with their squishy interior and crisp sugar-coated exterior, who's going to quibble?

The New York Times - Food

Many people conflate the internet's online services and the web as one and the same — yet they are technically quite different.

The New York Times - Tech

Paul Munday of Meyer & Mortimer, an outfit founded by one of Brummel's favourite tailors, accepts that military tailoring is "technically quite different" to the civilian sort.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "technically different", be prepared to explain the technical details that justify the distinction to ensure clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "technically different" without providing context or explanation, as the audience may not understand the underlying technicalities. Always clarify the specific differences to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "technically different" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that the difference is based on technical specifications or criteria. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from cricket to legal matters.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "technically different" is a versatile adjective phrase used to highlight distinctions based on specific technical criteria. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in contexts such as News & Media and Science. While it conveys a precise meaning, it's essential to provide sufficient context to ensure the audience understands the technicalities involved. Alternatives like "formally distinct" or "specifically varied" can be used depending on the desired emphasis. By understanding its function and usage patterns, writers can effectively use "technically different" to enhance clarity and precision in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

formally distinct

Emphasizes the official or structural nature of the difference.

specifically varied

Highlights that the difference is concrete and detailed.

distinct in principle

Focuses on a difference in the underlying concept or theory.

different in practice

Highlights how the actual application or execution differs.

conceptually unrelated

Indicates a more fundamental difference in the ideas behind them.

materially altered

Indicates a substantial change or difference in substance.

qualitatively distinct

Emphasizes the nature or character of the difference.

nominally divergent

Focuses on a difference in name or classification only.

practically dissimilar

Stresses the noticeable difference in real-world application.

intrinsically separate

Indicates an inherent and fundamental difference.

FAQs

How can I use "technically different" in a sentence?

You can use "technically different" to describe distinctions between items that may seem similar but have specific underlying differences. For example: "While the two products appear identical, they are "technically different" due to their internal components."

What is a good alternative to "technically different"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "technically different" include "formally distinct", "specifically varied", or "distinct in principle".

What's the difference between "technically different" and "practically different"?

"Technically different" refers to a distinction based on specific technical criteria, while "practically different" means there is a noticeable difference in real-world application. Something "technically different" might not be "practically dissimilar".

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "technically different"?

It is appropriate to use "technically different" in contexts where precision and accuracy are important, such as in scientific, engineering, or legal discussions. It helps to clarify distinctions that may not be immediately obvious.