the bigger difference between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the bigger difference between" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two or more items or concepts to highlight the significant distinctions among them. Example: "The bigger difference between the two proposals lies in their budget allocations and timelines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The bigger difference between this and other phones is what the Hub's little screen can do.

The New York Times - Tech

The bigger difference between the two books, however, lies in the author's handling of Ben's story.

The New York Times - Books

In New Orleans, the bigger difference between 2005 and today is the system of defenses the corps has built closer to New Orleans — especially the billion-dollar "Great Wall of Lake Borgne".

The New York Times

The bigger difference between ARs we have, the smaller synergism can be observed.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The bigger difference between the two is that Mosaic albums are shipped out to you, while Moments' books can be picked up locally almost immediately.

TechCrunch

But the bigger difference between the ring and the smartwatch is not about their aesthetics, but that the watch actually allows you to take action from your wrist when an important alert comes through.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The biggest difference between the two?

The New York Times - Sports

They were the big difference between 2011 to 2015.

The Guardian - Sport

That was the big difference between them".

The New York Times

What's the biggest difference between the U.S. and Australia?

Princeton University

The big difference between the teams is on defense.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider whether "bigger" accurately reflects the type of difference you want to convey. "Significant" or "major" might be more appropriate depending on the context.

Common error

While "the bigger difference between" is grammatically correct, it can sound informal. In formal writing, consider using more precise terms like "more significant difference" or "major distinction".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the bigger difference between" functions as a comparative determiner phrase. It introduces a comparison, indicating that one difference is more substantial or impactful than others. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

37%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the bigger difference between" serves to emphasize a notable distinction during a comparison. While grammatically correct and understandable, Ludwig suggests it leans toward a neutral to slightly informal register. In academic or professional writing, more formal alternatives like "the more significant difference" may be preferred. Analyzing usage patterns reveals its prevalence in news, media, and scientific contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is well-established, offering a straightforward means to highlight key differences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the more significant difference between

Replaces "bigger" with "more significant", emphasizing the importance of the difference.

the major distinction between

Uses "major distinction" instead of "bigger difference", focusing on key differentiating factors.

the primary contrast between

Employs "primary contrast" to underscore the fundamental dissimilarity.

the key variation between

Substitutes "bigger difference" with "key variation", highlighting notable variances.

the principal divergence between

Replaces "difference" with the more formal term "divergence", indicating a deviation.

the greatest disparity between

Uses "greatest disparity" to emphasize a considerable imbalance or inequality.

the fundamental gap between

Replaces "difference" with "gap", focusing on the space or separation between entities.

the essential divide between

Employs "essential divide" to highlight critical dividing lines.

the overriding factor distinguishing

Shifts the focus to a single factor that sets entities apart.

the most impactful dissimilarity between

Uses "most impactful dissimilarity" emphasizing the effect or influence of the difference.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "the bigger difference between"?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases such as "the more significant difference between", "the major distinction between", or "the primary contrast between".

How can I use "the bigger difference between" in a sentence?

You can use "the bigger difference between" to highlight a key distinction when comparing two or more things. For example, "The bigger difference between the two approaches is the level of risk involved."

Is there a subtle difference between "the bigger difference between" and "the biggest difference between"?

Yes, "the biggest difference between" implies a singular, most important difference, while "the bigger difference between" suggests one difference is larger or more impactful than others, but not necessarily the only important one.

What can I say instead of "the bigger difference between" when comparing many options?

When comparing many options, you might consider phrases like "the most significant differentiating factor", "a key distinguishing feature", or "the most important variable separating these options".