to try something different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to try something different" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting or expressing the idea of experimenting with new ideas, methods, or experiences. Example: "After years of following the same routine, I decided it was time to try something different and explore new hobbies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So Alm decided to try something different.

The New York Times - Magazine

Seize this moment to try something different.

Independent

"We decided to try something different".

The New York Times

I just wanted to try something different".

The New York Times

"We need to try something different".

The New York Times - Sports

But I decided to try something different.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, we had to try something different.

The New York Times - Sports

It's time to try something different.

The New York Times

But Peter decided to try something different.

The Guardian

Stewart decided to try something different.

The Washington Post

For a final assignment, Wilkerson decided to try something different.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to try something different" when you want to express a deliberate decision to move away from routine or previous methods. It often implies a sense of exploration or a need for change.

Common error

While "to try something different" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using alternatives such as "to experiment with a new approach" or "to explore other options" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to try something different" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing the purpose or intention behind an action. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and widely used. It typically follows a verb indicating a decision or desire for change.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

23%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to try something different" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a desire for change or novelty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, including news, academia, and personal communication. The phrase functions as an infinitive phrase, indicating the purpose behind an action. While versatile, it's important to avoid overusing it by exploring alternatives like "to experiment with something new" or "to explore other options" to maintain writing engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to experiment with something new

Focuses on the experimental aspect and introducing something entirely new.

to adopt a different approach

Emphasizes changing the method or strategy used.

to take an alternative route

Suggests choosing a different path or method to achieve a goal.

to explore other options

Highlights the act of investigating various possibilities.

to seek a change of pace

Implies a desire for a different rhythm or intensity in one's activities.

to venture into uncharted territory

Suggests exploring something completely unknown or unfamiliar.

to innovate

Focuses on the act of introducing new ideas or methods.

to break the mold

Implies departing from conventional patterns or norms.

to think outside the box

Suggests approaching problems or situations in a creative and unconventional way.

to deviate from the norm

Emphasizes departing from what is typical or expected.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "to try something different"?

Alternatives include "to experiment with something new", "to adopt a different approach", or "to explore other options", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "to try something different"?

Use "to try something different" when you want to emphasize a conscious decision to deviate from established methods or routines, usually with the intent of achieving a better outcome or experiencing something new.

Is "to try something different" formal or informal?

"To try something different" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, consider the specific audience and purpose to determine if a more precise or sophisticated alternative might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "to try something different" and "to do something differently"?

"To try something different" implies exploring a new activity or method altogether. "To do something differently" means altering the way you perform an existing activity. For example, instead of using the usual software (to do something differently), one could opt to use a different software altogether ("to try something different").