this differs substantially

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this differs substantially" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing two or more items, ideas, or situations to highlight significant differences between them. Example: "While both studies address climate change, this differs substantially in its methodology and scope."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

An important factor in recalcitrance for a given plant species is the type of tissues and cells present, and this differs substantially between different anatomical parts of the plant.

Biotechnology for Biofuels

This differs substantially from that of BuV3 found in Bhutan, further revealing the molecular characteristics of the new genotype.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

However, this differs substantially from real screening invitations [e.g. 17], which typically contain information about a single test.

European Radiology

This differs substantially from past work that was powered to seek associations with larger effect sizes such as traditional CVD risk factors.

Circulation

This differs substantially from the trends in Asia [ 28] and experts have gone to the extent of calling it a 'cultural artifact' in that reliance on this concept is not universal [ 29].

BMC Medical Ethics

This differs substantially from published observations with natriuretic peptides, which suggest that repeated measurement may increase diagnostic and prognostic yield and may be used to guide therapy (17, 18).

Annals of Medicine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Our study confirmed the stability of cardiometabolic risk factors across the puberty, though the magnitude of this stability differs substantially among the different variables.

Cardiovascular Diabetology

The lowest score for a two-domain case is Zip (58% non-cytosolic insertion), suggesting that this family differs substantially in this respect, and is unusually prone to variability in membrane insertion for a double domain DMT.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

This perspective differs substantially from any attempt of master-planning.

City, Territory and Architecture

This yoga differs substantially from the Raja yoga of Patanjali in that it focuses on shatkarma, the purification of the physical body as leading to the purification of the mind (ha), and prana, or vital energy (tha).

Wikipedia

This number differs substantially even among closely related species, with evidence for extensive gains/losses.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this differs substantially", clearly identify what "this" refers to, ensuring the comparison is explicit and easy to follow. For example, "The new study's findings differ substantially from previous research on the topic."

Common error

Avoid using "this differs substantially" without a clear antecedent for "this". Ensure the subject of comparison is unambiguous. Vague references can confuse readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this differs substantially" functions as a comparative statement, emphasizing a notable difference between two subjects. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is considered correct and usable in written English. It's purpose is to highlight that the difference is not marginal.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

80%

News & Media

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this differs substantially" is a grammatically correct phrase used to highlight significant differences between two or more items. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for written English and is most frequently found in scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the reference is clear and that the contrast being made is easily understood. Alternatives such as "this varies significantly" or "this contrasts sharply" can be used to convey similar meanings, although they each have slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this varies significantly

Emphasizes the degree of variation rather than a contrast.

this contrasts sharply

Highlights a strong opposition or distinction.

this diverges considerably

Suggests a departure or deviation from a common point.

this is markedly different

Directly states the presence of a noticeable difference.

this represents a major deviation

Focuses on the departure from an established norm or pattern.

this bears little resemblance

Indicates a lack of similarity or likeness.

this stands in stark contrast

Emphasizes the severity and obviousness of the difference.

the difference is considerable

Highlights the significance of the difference without specifying what "this" is.

it is significantly different

General statement highlighting that the difference is important.

there's a substantial divergence

Highlights a separation or split from a common point or standard.

FAQs

What does "this differs substantially" mean?

The phrase "this differs substantially" means that there is a significant or considerable difference between two things being compared. It indicates the difference is not minor but rather important and noticeable.

What are some alternatives to "this differs substantially"?

You can use alternatives like "this varies significantly", "this contrasts sharply", or "this is markedly different" depending on the specific context.

How can I use "this differs substantially" in a sentence?

Here's an example of how to use "this differs substantially" in a sentence: "While both approaches aim to reduce carbon emissions, this differs substantially in its reliance on renewable energy sources."

Is it better to say "this differs substantially" or "this differs slightly"?

The choice depends on the degree of difference you want to convey. Use "this differs substantially" when the difference is significant and important. Use "this differs slightly" if the difference is minor and almost negligible.