which are different

USAGE SUMMARY

"which are different" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to compare two or more things that are being contrasted in some way. For example: "There are many types of apples, which are different in terms of color, flavor, and texture."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The main differences between the datasets were in their patterns of regional bias, which are different in each dataset.

F1000Research

However, there are many factors which are different.

The Guardian

Finally he stressed his concerns about Google – which are different from those of Rupert Murdoch.

The Guardian

We then had to completely change our operating model to comply with Irish regulations, which are different to UK ones.

The Guardian

How to handle "the shift from metric to inches, or building codes which are different than Europe?" he asked.

The New York Times

"The school does not promote adequately students' awareness and tolerance of communities which are different to their own.

The Guardian

Instead of showing identity between things which are different (Whitman's democratic vista), everybody is shown to look the same".

The New York Times - Arts

That's the fun of it, figuring out which parts of yourself you can bring and which are different.

The Guardian

As for the mass audience, he has welcomed it on his own terms, which are different from Hoving's.

The New Yorker

"We've had Halifax's plans, which are different from Barclays that are different again from A&L," he says.

The Guardian - Money

Schumacher blamed his problems on inexperience with the intermediate tires, which are different from those he used in the past.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "which are different", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being compared and the nature of their differences. For instance, 'The two approaches, which are different in methodology, yield similar results.'

Common error

A common mistake is using "which" when "that" is more appropriate. Use "that" for restrictive clauses (essential to the sentence's meaning) and "which" for non-restrictive clauses (adding extra information). For example: 'The cars that are different cost more' (essential) vs. 'The cars, which are different, cost more' (extra information).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which are different" functions as a relative clause, providing additional, non-essential information about a noun. It often clarifies that specific elements within a broader category possess distinct characteristics, as Ludwig examples confirm.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "which are different" is a versatile relative clause used to provide additional, non-essential information that highlights distinctions between items or concepts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. The primary usage contexts are Science and News & Media, indicating its appropriateness for both formal and neutral registers. When using this phrase, ensure clear context and accurate application of "which" versus "that". Alternatives like "that are distinct" or "that vary" can offer similar nuances. Being mindful of these factors will ensure effective and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that are distinct

Focuses on clear and recognizable differences.

that are unlike

Directly states the lack of similarity.

that diverge

Highlights the act of moving in different directions or evolving separately.

that vary

Emphasizes the range or extent of difference.

that contrast

Highlights differences when compared side by side.

that show divergence

Similar to 'that diverge', focusing on the act of becoming different.

that stand apart

Focuses on the uniqueness or separation from others.

that deviate

Suggests a departure from a standard or norm.

that present disparities

Highlights inequalities or inconsistencies.

that bear no resemblance

Emphasizes a complete absence of similarity.

FAQs

How can I use "which are different" in a sentence?

Use "which are different" to provide additional information about a noun, indicating that the items being discussed have distinct characteristics. For example: "The two models, "which are different" in their design, both offer excellent performance".

What are some alternatives to using "which are different"?

You can use alternatives like "that are distinct", "that vary", or "that contrast" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to include "which are different" in a sentence?

No, it's not always necessary. The phrase adds descriptive detail and emphasis on the differences. If the difference is already implied or understood, the phrase can be omitted for conciseness.

What is the difference between "which are different" and "that are different"?

"Which are different" introduces a non-restrictive clause, providing extra information. "That are different" introduces a restrictive clause, essential for identifying the specific noun. For example: "The apples that are different colors taste better" (identifying specific apples) vs. "The apples, "which are different" colors, are on sale" (additional information).