the fundamental difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the fundamental difference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an important distinction between two or more things. For example, "The fundamental difference between these two theories is the approach they take to explaining what happened."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The fundamental difference between the three equations is that they address different questions.

American Journal of Human Biology

The fundamental difference is methodological.

The Economist

About the fundamental difference between us, Min would answer.

The New Yorker

That's the fundamental difference between those films and new films".

The New York Times - Books

This is the fundamental difference between Democrats and Republicans.

The New Yorker

What is the fundamental difference between old crime shows and the three described in the article?

The New York Times

This is the fundamental difference between carbon and water sustainability approaches.

The Guardian

Which brings me to the fundamental difference between curry in Bangladesh and here: fish.

The Guardian - Travel

THE fundamental difference in the way they approached life could be seen in the kitchen.

The New York Times

He wrote: "This is the fundamental difference between Android and iPhone.

The Guardian - Tech

CLEARWATER, Fla .— The fundamental difference between Xavier Nady and Nick Swisher is selectivity at the plate.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the fundamental difference", clearly state what two or more things are being compared to ensure the context is unambiguous.

Common error

Avoid using "the fundamental difference" as a conversation-ender. Instead, elaborate on why the difference is fundamental and its implications, rather than using it as a shallow conclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the fundamental difference" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a core distinction between two or more entities, ideas, or concepts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the fundamental difference" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that serves to highlight a core distinction between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely applicable across various contexts, but predominantly appears in news, media and scientific publications.

Its purpose is to emphasize a significant distinction, guiding comprehension and decision-making. While versatile, it's important to use the phrase thoughtfully, ensuring clarity and avoiding oversimplification of complex matters. By following best practices, such as clearly defining the entities being compared, writers can leverage "the fundamental difference" effectively to enhance their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the key distinction

Focuses on identifying the most important differentiating factor.

the primary distinction

Highlights the foremost difference between two or more things.

the essential dissimilarity

Emphasizes the inherent lack of resemblance.

the major disparity

Suggests a significant imbalance or inequality.

the underlying contrast

Points to a less obvious but significant difference.

the basic divergence

Indicates a departure from a common point.

the core divergence

Highlights the central aspect where things differ.

the principal variation

Emphasizes a significant change or deviation.

the marked contrast

Highlights a noticeable and clear difference.

the crucial demarcation

Points out a critical boundary or separation.

FAQs

How can I use "the fundamental difference" in a sentence?

You can use "the fundamental difference" to highlight a key distinction. For example, "The fundamental difference between these approaches lies in their methodology."

What's a good alternative to "the fundamental difference"?

Alternatives include "the key distinction", "the primary distinction", or "the essential dissimilarity", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "fundamental difference" or "key difference"?

While both are correct, "fundamental difference" suggests a more foundational and impactful distinction, while "key difference" simply points out an important distinction.

What makes a difference "fundamental"?

A fundamental difference affects the core nature, function, or outcome of the things being compared. It is not merely superficial or incidental.