unlike the majority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unlike the majority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to highlight a difference or contrast between a specific subject and the larger group it belongs to. Example: "Unlike the majority of students, she prefers to study late at night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Unlike the majority of other artists in this absorbing show, he is unlikely to claim a place in photographic history.

The New York Times

Unlike the majority, I believe that tobacco products fit within this statutory language.

The New York Times

Unlike the majority of Catholics the Fitzgeralds had known, O'Connor lived her faith.

The New Yorker

Unlike the majority of folkies then and now, Mr. Dylan has no interest in seeming kindly.

The New York Times - Arts

Unlike the majority of actors, her characters live palpably behind her eyes.

The Guardian - Film

Unlike the majority, though, they claim to think something can be done about it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Unlike the majority of news sites on the Web, it charges readers for access.

The New York Times

Hazara Unlike the majority of Afghans, the Hazaras are mostly Shia.

Independent

Unlike the majority of its sister islands, Mindoro has no deep coastal embayments or fringing islets.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Unlike the majority of other castles it is very much intact.

Independent

Unlike the majority of Israelis, he is intimately familiar with the settlements, most recently as a demonstrator against their expansion.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unlike the majority", ensure that the contrast you are drawing is significant and adds meaningful information to your statement. Be specific about what makes the subject different.

Common error

Avoid using "unlike the majority" when the group being contrasted is too small or undefined. The comparison should be with a reasonably large and well-understood group to be effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unlike the majority" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a contrast or exception. It sets up a comparison between a specific subject and the larger group to which it belongs, highlighting a differentiating characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "unlike the majority" is a versatile and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to introduce a contrast between a specific subject and its broader group. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is widely accepted and applicable across various contexts. It's particularly prevalent in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. When using this phrase, ensure the contrast is significant and the reference group is clearly defined. Alternatives such as "contrary to most" or "in contrast to most" can be used to express similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unlike most

Shortens the original phrase while maintaining the same contrasting meaning.

not like the majority

A more direct and simple way of stating the difference from the norm.

in contrast to most

Directly points out the difference when compared to the greater part.

contrary to most

Emphasizes opposition or divergence from the general trend or commonality.

as opposed to the majority

Draws a clear contrast, often implying a deliberate choice to be different.

differing from the majority

Focuses on the act of being different or varying from what is typical.

distinct from the majority

Stresses the unique and clearly differentiated nature compared to the larger group.

dissimilar to the majority

Highlights the lack of resemblance or similarity with the larger group.

in opposition to the majority

Highlights a stance against what is generally accepted or followed.

deviating from the majority

Implies a departure or straying from the typical path or behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "unlike the majority" in a sentence?

Use "unlike the majority" to highlight a contrast between a subject and a larger group it belongs to. For instance, "Unlike the majority of students, she prefers to study late at night."

What are some alternatives to "unlike the majority"?

You can use alternatives like "contrary to most", "in contrast to most", or "dissimilar to the majority" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to specify the 'majority' when using "unlike the majority"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying the majority enhances clarity. For example, instead of just saying "Unlike the majority, he preferred jazz", specify "Unlike the majority of his friends, he preferred jazz."

What's the difference between "unlike the majority" and "unlike most"?

"Unlike the majority" is slightly more formal and emphasizes a statistical difference, while "unlike most" is more general and can refer to common tendencies without necessarily implying a precise count. The choice depends on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.