took a different approach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "took a different approach" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation where someone has chosen an alternative method or strategy to address a problem or task. Example: "After several failed attempts, the team took a different approach and found a solution that worked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Flynn took a different approach.

The New Yorker

Interboro took a different approach.

The New York Times

Nevada took a different approach.

The New York Times - Science

Sony took a different approach.

Independent

So Ms. Smaltz took a different approach.

The New York Times

"So we took a different approach".

The New York Times

The Hindustan Times took a different approach.

The New York Times

His sparring partner took a different approach.

The New York Times

Patricia McHugh took a different approach.

The New Yorker

"I took a different approach this time.

The New York Times - Sports

Dr Fouchier took a different approach.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "took a different approach" to signal a turning point or a change in strategy, especially when the initial method was unsuccessful or inappropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "took a different approach" without specifying what the previous approach was. This can leave the reader confused about the context and significance of the change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "took a different approach" functions as a transitive verb phrase, indicating an action performed by a subject. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples shows its common use in describing a shift in methodology or strategy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

13%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "took a different approach" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a change in strategy or methodology. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically sound and widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. While generally neutral in tone, it's crucial to provide context about the original approach to maintain clarity. For more formal writing, consider alternatives like "instituted a revised procedure" or "developed an innovative process". Keep in mind what the initial method was to ensure understandability, as the lack of it is the most common error when using the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

used an alternative method

Highlights the employment of a non-traditional technique.

employed a different tactic

Emphasizes the use of a different maneuver to achieve a goal.

adopted a new strategy

Focuses on the adoption of a specific plan of action.

chose a divergent path

Emphasizes selecting a course that deviates from the norm.

opted for another course of action

Suggests a deliberate choice to pursue a different path.

turned to a dissimilar technique

Highlights a shift towards a markedly distinct technique.

followed a unique route

Implies a singular and unconventional way of proceeding.

pioneered a novel method

Implies innovation and being the first to use a particular method.

instituted a revised procedure

Focuses on the formal implementation of an updated process.

developed an innovative process

Highlights the creation of a cutting-edge and original process.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "took a different approach" to add variety to my writing?

You can use alternatives like "adopted a new strategy", "used an alternative method", or "employed a different tactic" depending on the context.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "took a different approach"?

It's appropriate when describing a conscious decision to change a method or strategy, especially after an initial approach has proven ineffective or unsuitable. It signals a deliberate shift in tactics.

What's the difference between "took a different approach" and "tried a different approach"?

"Took a different approach" implies a more deliberate and significant change in strategy. "Tried a different approach" might suggest a more experimental or tentative attempt, you can use alternatives like "used an alternative method" for the second case.

Is "took a different approach" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "took a different approach" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. However, in very formal contexts, consider alternatives like "instituted a revised procedure" or "developed an innovative process" to convey a more professional tone.