underlining the difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "underlining the difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing or highlighting a distinction between two or more things. Example: "The report is effective in underlining the difference between the two approaches to problem-solving."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Underlining the difference with Android Go, Pienimäki also pointed out: "We are not force feeding you the services, we are not monetizing the service.

TechCrunch

In the past, a difference between both glucometabolic derangements for cardiometabolic mortality has been reported, underlining the difference in pathophysiology of the two glucometabolic disorders.

European Journal of Pediatrics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Ms. Chenillo continually tries to lighten the mood with laughter, sometimes by underlining the differences between the unsmiling Orthodox Jewish and more freewheeling Christian interlopers.

The New York Times

On Friday Rosneft insisted it had made no offer for the BP stake in TNK while AAR reiterated that interest while underlining the differences between the two sets of shareholders.

The Guardian - Business

However, from Mr. Hollande's viewpoint, the pension proposal worked: it kept his promise to his base to protect benefits, underlining the differences with his predecessor.

The New York Times

The contemporaneous analysis of gas and PM10 has allowed underlining the differences between the sources of these pollutants.

Chemistry Central Journal

The 8 markers investigated here behaved differently when assessed on T. b. gambiense or T. b. rhodesiense samples, underlining the differences between the two forms of disease, and suggesting that potentially new rhodesiense-specific markers could be discovered.

Clinical and Translational Medicine

None of these mutations suppressed PEV, again, underlining the differences between telomeric and centromeric silencing mechanisms.

Plosone

However, despite the fact of aromatic residues at the tip of all CDR3 loops, no significant structural homology between the CDR loops can be observed underlining the differences in mode of gp120 interaction.

Plosone

Some of the other subgroups were also enriched in tumours annotated to specific molecular subgroups (Basal-like, LuminalA and LuminalB) underlining the differences of these subtypes not only on mutation and gene expression level but also functionally.

BMC Systems Biology

These results underline the difference between metaphyseal and shaft healing, and suggest a different role for inflammation in healing at the two sites.

Bone and Joint Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "underlining the difference" when you want to clearly draw attention to a specific distinction between two or more things. It's effective in formal writing and presentations where clarity is key.

Common error

Avoid using "underlining the difference" in very casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "pointing out the difference" or "showing the difference" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underlining the difference" functions as a verbal phrase used to emphasize a distinction. It acts as a way of drawing attention to a specific variance, as confirmed by Ludwig, and is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "underlining the difference" is grammatically correct and serves to emphasize a distinction between two or more entities. While Ludwig confirms its validity and usability, its frequency is relatively rare. It finds its primary use in news and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. Alternative phrases such as "emphasizing the distinction" or "highlighting the contrast" offer similar meanings, but the choice depends on the specific nuance and context required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Emphasizing the distinction

Uses a more formal tone, replacing "underlining" with "emphasizing".

Underscoring the gap

Uses a synonym for "underlining" and a metaphor for "difference".

Highlighting the contrast

Focuses on the contrast itself, rather than the act of emphasizing it.

Pinpointing the variation

Adds a level of precision to the act of noting the difference.

accentuating the divide

Accentuates difference in terms of strength and positionality.

Stressing the variance

Highlights the degree of difference, rather than just the existence of a difference.

Spotlighting the divergence

Uses a more vivid verb to describe the act of emphasizing the difference.

Drawing attention to the disparity

More explicitly points out the act of noticing the difference.

Bringing the contrast into focus

This is more specific, with the goal of clarifying the comparison.

Illustrating the divide

Emphasizes the separation caused by the difference.

FAQs

How can I use "underlining the difference" in a sentence?

You can use "underlining the difference" to emphasize a distinction, as in: "The report is effective in "underlining the difference" between the two approaches to problem-solving."

What is a more formal alternative to "underlining the difference"?

A more formal alternative is "emphasizing the distinction", which conveys a similar meaning with a slightly elevated tone.

What's the difference between "highlighting the difference" and "underlining the difference"?

"Highlighting the difference" and "underlining the difference" are very similar, but "underlining" suggests a more deliberate and forceful drawing of attention to the distinction.

When is it appropriate to use "underlining the difference" in writing?

It is appropriate in formal writing, academic papers, or business reports where you need to clearly and deliberately emphasize a distinction. Avoid using it in casual conversation.