very different

USAGE SUMMARY

"very different" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adjective used to describe two things that have major contrasts between them. Example: Despite being in the same profession, my brother and I are very different.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Very different.

The New York Times - Sports

very different.

Columbia University

It looked very different.

The New York Times - Science

Two very different experiences.

The New York Times

We are very different.

The New York Times

"They were very different.

The New York Times

"Yeah, they're very different.

Independent

SISTER: And very different.

The New Yorker

"Edgar was very different.

The New Yorker

It was very different.

The New York Times

REDGRAVE It's very different.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very different" to emphasize significant contrasts between two or more subjects. Ensure the context clarifies what aspects are being compared to highlight the specific differences.

Common error

Avoid using "very different" without clearly specifying the points of comparison. Instead of saying "These two approaches are very different", clarify what makes them different, such as "These two approaches are "very different" in their methodologies and expected outcomes".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "very different" is to act as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It intensifies the degree to which something is not the same as something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a commonly used expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

14%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very different" is a commonly used adjective phrase to emphasize a significant contrast between two or more things. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, with a neutral register. While its frequent use in news and media demonstrates its versatility, remember to provide specific context to enhance clarity. For alternative expressions, consider phrases like "markedly dissimilar" or "distinctly unalike" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

markedly dissimilar

This alternative uses more formal language to emphasize a noticeable lack of similarity.

distinctly unalike

This phrase highlights the clear distinction between two or more things.

quite contrasting

Emphasizes the opposition or divergence between the subjects being compared.

entirely disparate

Implies a complete lack of common ground or connection.

worlds apart

This idiomatic expression illustrates a vast difference or separation.

poles apart

Similar to "worlds apart", this idiom suggests opposite extremes.

widely divergent

Focuses on the extensive degree to which things have deviated or separated.

radically altered

This suggests a fundamental change that results in a significant difference.

fundamentally distinct

Highlights that the difference is at the core or base level.

notably different

Points out that the difference is significant and worthy of attention.

FAQs

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

You can use "very different" to highlight notable contrasts between two or more subjects. For example, "Although they are siblings, their personalities are "very different"".

What phrases can I use instead of "very different"?

Alternatives to "very different" include "markedly dissimilar", "distinctly unalike", or "quite contrasting", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very, very different"?

While grammatically correct, using "very, very different" can sound repetitive. Consider using a stronger adjective, such as "entirely disparate" or "worlds apart", for greater impact.

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

"Very different" indicates a significant contrast, while "slightly different" suggests a minor variation. The choice depends on the degree of difference you want to emphasize.