there is a stark difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there is a stark difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to highlight a significant contrast between two or more things. Example: "When comparing the two proposals, there is a stark difference in their approaches to sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

There is a stark difference between then and now; it's like two different kinds of education.

BMC Medical Education

And there is a stark difference between the two.

The New York Times

"There is a stark difference between what seniors are looking for and what was produced".

The New York Times

There is a stark difference between the residential and commercial markets, Mr. Puopolo said.

The New York Times

Another comparison offered by some is to the address by Gen. Douglas MacArthur in 1951, although there is a stark difference: MacArthur spoke to Congress after he was removed by President Truman over his handling of the Korean War.

The New York Times

But while Senator Obama and Senator McCain both criticize President Bush for relying on a personal relationship with Mr. Putin, and both strenuously criticize Russia's manhandling of Georgia, there is a stark difference between them.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

In almost every case, there's a stark difference between the two images of each woman.

The Guardian - Opinion

But on the economy and the global financial crisis there was a stark difference.

Independent

There's a stark difference between this and the group's previous releases, despite the buoyant drift of "Cuernavaca" or the staccato syncopations of "Apsara".

The New York Times - Arts

McIntosh saw there was a stark difference between the two parties in terms of "who trusted women to make their own health decisions", and attested the ads that ran on the issue moved independent female voters.

The Guardian - Opinion

Asked by one interviewer if he would "take down" Mr. de Blasio during the campaign, Mr. Lhota answered in the affirmative: "I do want to have a takedown," and added, "I'm going to do it because there's a stark difference between us".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "there is a stark difference" to clearly highlight a significant contrast between two or more distinct elements or ideas.

Common error

Avoid using "there is a stark difference" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or pretentious in such settings. Opt for simpler, more natural phrasing like "they're very different".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is a stark difference" functions as an emphatic statement of contrast. It asserts that a considerable and easily noticeable difference exists between two or more entities. As Ludwig suggests, the phrase is used to underscore a significant distinction.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "there is a stark difference" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that effectively highlights a significant contrast. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and formal business settings. While considered neutral to formal in register, it's crucial to avoid overuse in informal settings. Related phrases, such as "there is a significant contrast" or "there is a marked distinction", offer suitable alternatives. Remember to use this phrase when you wish to clearly emphasize a notable and important distinction, ensuring clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there is a significant contrast

Replaces "stark difference" with "significant contrast", emphasizing the degree of difference.

there is a marked distinction

Substitutes "stark difference" with "marked distinction", highlighting a clear and noticeable separation.

there exists a clear divergence

Replaces the common phrase with a more formal and emphatic expression of difference.

a sharp divide is apparent

Changes the structure to emphasize the "sharp divide" that is noticeable.

a notable disparity is evident

Emphasizes the inequality or difference between two things using "disparity" and "evident".

the contrast is striking

Focuses on the impact of the contrast being very noticeable or impressive.

the divergence is considerable

Highlights that the divergence or difference is substantial.

the distinction is pronounced

Indicates that the distinction is very clear and easily noticeable.

a gulf exists between

Uses "gulf" metaphorically to describe a large difference or separation.

they differ significantly

Simplifies the phrase to a direct statement of significant difference.

FAQs

How can I use "there is a stark difference" in a sentence?

This phrase is used to emphasize a significant contrast between two or more things. For example, "There is a stark difference between the company's performance this year and last year."

What phrases are similar to "there is a stark difference"?

You can use alternatives like "there is a significant contrast", "there is a marked distinction", or "there exists a clear divergence" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "there is a stark difference"?

This phrase is appropriate when you want to clearly emphasize a notable and important distinction. It works well in formal writing, analytical reports, and situations where clarity is paramount.

Is "there is a stark difference" formal or informal?

The phrase "there is a stark difference" is generally considered more formal. In informal contexts, simpler phrases like "they are very different" might be more suitable.