the key difference is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the key difference is' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are pointing out a notable distinction between two similar things. For example: "The key difference between this new software and the older version is its improved user experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The key difference is Messi.

The Guardian - Sport

The key difference is formal negotiation.

The New York Times - Magazine

The key difference is the glide.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The key difference is that the bag doesn't boil.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The key difference is that anaesthesia is reversible.

The Guardian - Tech

The key difference is that England's frontline warriors are no longer anyone's idea of a pushover.

The Guardian - Sport

Here the key difference is in how the network resources are used.

The New York Times - Tech

"The key difference is that these councils have succeeded in getting the public on board".

The Guardian

The key difference is that the rappers are much shorter and made of flexible steel.

The Guardian

What ultimately happens is broadly predictable, but the key difference is that you care.

The Guardian - Film

The key difference is not between genetically determined and culturally determined views of human behaviour.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, ensure that the subjects being compared have already been introduced or are easily understood within the context. Clarity depends on the reader understanding what is being compared.

Common error

Avoid using "the key difference is" to gloss over nuanced comparisons. Ensure you provide enough context and detail to support your claim. If you are not explaining it clearly enough, try to be more specific.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the key difference is" functions as a linking phrase used to introduce the most important distinction between two or more subjects. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely usable. It directly signals to the reader that a crucial point of comparison is about to be made.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the key difference is" is a frequently used and grammatically correct phrase that introduces the most significant distinction between two or more items. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts. It is most commonly used in News & Media, Science and Formal & Business settings. When writing, use this phrase to clearly signal the most important point of comparison, but avoid oversimplification and ensure sufficient context for your audience. Alternatives include "the main distinction is", "the crucial divergence lies in", and "the significant contrast is".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the most important difference is

Stresses the importance of the difference.

the main distinction is

Replaces "key difference" with "main distinction", emphasizing the primary point of differentiation.

the differentiating factor is

Highlights the element that causes a difference.

the defining characteristic is

Emphasizes the characteristic that most clearly defines the difference.

the significant contrast is

Highlights a notable contrast between the subjects being compared.

the primary variation is

Indicates the main variation between two things.

the crucial divergence lies in

Uses more formal vocabulary ("crucial", "divergence") to indicate an important difference.

the fundamental disparity is

Indicates a basic and important difference.

what sets it apart is

Focuses on the unique characteristic that distinguishes one thing from another.

the notable dissimilarity is

Highlights the dissimilarity between two things.

FAQs

How can I use "the key difference is" in a sentence?

Use "the key difference is" to highlight the most important distinction between two things. For example, "While both phones have similar features, "the key difference is" the camera quality".

What are some alternatives to "the key difference is"?

You can use alternatives such as "the main distinction is", "the most important difference is", or "the significant contrast is" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it redundant to say "the key difference is that"?

While not strictly redundant, consider if "that" is necessary. Often, the sentence flows better without it: "The key difference is the improved battery life" is more concise than "The key difference is that the battery life is improved".

What's the difference between "the key difference is" and "the main difference is"?

Both phrases are very similar, but "the key difference is" implies that the difference being highlighted is particularly important or crucial, whereas "the main difference is" simply the most notable one.