utterly different

USAGE SUMMARY

"utterly different" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to emphasize that something is completely different from something else. Here is an example: The two sisters seemed to be utterly different from each other. One was quiet and reserved, while the other was outgoing and talkative.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Everything else is utterly different.

The New Yorker

Marclay's work is utterly different.

The Guardian - Arts

The sufferers' fibres looked utterly different.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But their border regions look utterly different.

The Economist

The thing is, we're also utterly different.

Independent

It's an utterly different kind of concept.

The Guardian

The real agenda is utterly different.

The Guardian

Making the film was utterly different.

The Guardian

But his approach was utterly different.

The Guardian

And yet the mood here is utterly different.

Independent

But in Wheeldon's season she was utterly different, even physically.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utterly different" to emphasize a significant contrast, particularly when the difference is surprising or unexpected. This phrase is more impactful than simply saying "different".

Common error

Avoid using "utterly different" for minor distinctions. Reserve it for situations where the contrast is substantial and noteworthy. Using it too often can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utterly different" functions as an intensifier followed by an adjective. The adverb "utterly" modifies and strengthens the adjective "different", emphasizing a complete lack of similarity. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "utterly different" is a common and grammatically correct construction used to emphasize a significant contrast or dissimilarity. Ludwig AI examples from various sources, including news outlets and scientific publications, show that the phrase functions as an intensifier followed by an adjective, aiming to highlight fundamental distinctions. While it's appropriate for formal writing, avoid overusing it in simple comparisons to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "completely dissimilar" or "radically contrasting" can provide nuanced variations. In summary, "utterly different" is a powerful tool for emphasizing contrast when used judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely dissimilar

Replaces "different" with "dissimilar", emphasizing a lack of resemblance and uses "completely" for the same amplification.

entirely distinct

Emphasizes the separateness and uniqueness using "distinct" instead of "different" and "entirely" for intensification.

radically contrasting

Highlights a sharp opposition or divergence using "contrasting" instead of "different" and "radically" for emphasis.

poles apart

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey extreme difference or opposition, suggesting that the two things are at opposite ends of a spectrum.

worlds away

Emphasizes a vast difference, implying that the two things are so different they might as well belong to different realms or experiences.

fundamentally divergent

Focuses on differences at the core or foundation, using "divergent" to suggest a branching off or moving in separate directions.

absolutely unalike

Stresses the absence of similarity using "unalike" instead of "different" and "absolutely" for intensification.

markedly disparate

Highlights noticeable differences and a lack of common ground, using "disparate" to suggest a fundamental incompatibility.

singularly unique

Emphasizes the exceptional nature and originality, stressing that it stands alone in its distinctiveness.

nothing alike

Suggests a complete absence of similarity or resemblance, emphasizing that the two items or concepts have no shared characteristics.

FAQs

How can I use "utterly different" in a sentence?

You can use "utterly different" to emphasize a significant contrast between two or more things. For example, "The two approaches to the problem were "utterly different", one focusing on short-term gains and the other on long-term sustainability."

What are some alternatives to "utterly different"?

Alternatives include "completely dissimilar", "entirely distinct", or "radically contrasting", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "utterly different" in formal writing?

Yes, "utterly different" is appropriate for formal writing when you want to emphasize a substantial contrast. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and context of your piece.

What's the difference between "utterly different" and "very different"?

"Utterly different" implies a complete and total dissimilarity, whereas "very different" simply indicates a high degree of difference. The former is stronger and more emphatic than the latter.