the only difference is

USAGE SUMMARY

"the only difference is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when comparing two things that are similar but have one distinct difference. For example, "My older sister and I look a lot alike, but the only difference is that her hair is a dark shade of brown."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"The only difference is material and scale.

The New York Times - Magazine

The only difference is, you're alive.

The New York Times

The only difference is their arsenals.

The New Yorker

The only difference is Law.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Sometimes the only difference is motive.

The New York Times

The only difference is the participants".

The Guardian

The only difference is the cost.

The New York Times

The only difference is our complicity.

The Washington Post

The only difference is the baseline.

The Washington Post

The only difference is that we started with the coefficients.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"The only difference is I had to answer to nuns".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the only difference is", ensure that the similarities between the subjects are already understood or have been previously established. This provides context and prevents misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "the only difference is" when multiple notable differences exist. This phrase implies a singular distinction, and misusing it can undermine your credibility and confuse your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the only difference is" functions as a connector highlighting a singular distinction. It introduces the specific aspect that differentiates two otherwise similar subjects, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the only difference is" serves as a connector to spotlight a single distinguishing factor between similar subjects. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Its straightforward nature makes it suitable for various contexts, especially news and academic writing, with examples showing its prevalence in sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. When using this phrase, ensure a clear understanding of existing similarities and avoid overstating minor differences to maintain clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the sole distinction lies in

Emphasizes that the difference is singular and unique.

the key distinction is

Highlights the primary and most important difference.

the main variance is

Focuses on the variation or deviation between the subjects.

the crucial factor is

Identifies the pivotal element that sets them apart.

what sets it apart is

Emphasizes the element causing separation.

the single point of divergence is

Highlights that the distinction is individual.

the noticeable difference is

Indicates an easily observed difference.

the differentiating aspect is

Highlights a specific element that sets them apart.

the contrast centers on

Focuses on where the opposition is centered.

the deviation stems from

Highlights that the divergence comes or originates from

FAQs

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

Use "the only difference is" to point out a singular distinction between two similar things. For example, "Both cakes use the same recipe; the only difference is the frosting."

What phrases are similar to "the only difference is"?

Alternatives include "the sole distinction is", "the key difference is", and "the main variance is".

Is it grammatically correct to say "the only difference is"?

Yes, "the only difference is" is grammatically correct and commonly used to highlight a specific distinction. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

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

"The only difference is" implies that there is one single distinction, while "the main difference is" suggests that there might be other differences, but one is more significant.