while differing

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence fragment "while differing" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to show contrast between two similar yet distinct things. For example: The two teams had similar strategies, yet they achieved very different results while differing only in a few key details.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some experts, such as physician Richard Cooper of Loyola University in Chicago, say such research casts no light on medically relevant racial differences because the DNA markers, while differing between ethnic groups, are not directly linked with diseases.

Science Magazine

The algae were selected to represent different taxonomic groups, sharing a similar size, while differing in geometry.

Biomedical Optics Express

The existence of such a general ability would be indicated if the performance across different social situations is correlated within individuals, while differing between individuals.

Animal Behaviour

Democratic presidential candidates, while differing on many issues, largely agree in opposing the law.

The New York Times

Both families, while differing in their class backgrounds, are staunchly Roman Catholic and committed to public service under the umbrella of the Democratic Party.

The New York Times

The cuts, while differing by country, are intended to give a measure of stability to a tenuous spurt of economic growth.

The New York Times

But each has suggested some intriguing fixes that, while differing in the details, all seek to alleviate the entitlement problem by stimulating individual savings.

The New York Times - Magazine

Long-time rivals, while differing in their political views, share the intention of giving the process of liberalization and democracy the best possible chance.

The New York Times

Noting that both he and Mr. Gore had advocated better schools, tax reform and a stronger military, while differing on specifics, the president-elect appealed for cross-aisle cooperation.

The New York Times

Business leaders and politicians of all colours, while differing in detail, are broadly aligned in the belief that growth remains our overwhelming priority with the increased export of products and services our key to sustainable prosperity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Despite his failures, Tarrasch is best remembered for his books, especially The Game of Chess (1935), which developed and popularized Wilhelm Steinitz's theories while differing with the master about what constituted a small advantage.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "while differing" to concisely acknowledge differences between two or more subjects before elaborating on shared characteristics or overarching themes. This sets a nuanced tone.

Common error

Avoid using "while differing" when the subjects are entirely dissimilar. This phrase is most effective when highlighting subtle distinctions within a context of overall similarity, not to describe unrelated entities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "while differing" functions as a concessive conjunction phrase, used to introduce a contrasting element or detail. It acknowledges a difference or divergence between two or more subjects, setting up a comparison, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "while differing" serves as a valuable tool for writers aiming to express nuanced comparisons. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. As a concessive conjunction phrase, it effectively highlights distinctions within shared contexts. While it appears most frequently in scientific and news publications, its formal tone makes it suitable for diverse writing scenarios. Remember to use "while differing" when the subjects share a degree of similarity, rather than being completely unrelated, and check out the related phrases for alternative phrasing options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

although varying

Replaces "differing" with "varying", which has a slightly broader sense of not being constant or uniform.

although not the same

States the difference in a simple way.

though distinguishable

Focuses on the ability to tell the items apart.

even though distinct

Emphasizes the separateness of the items being compared.

whilst exhibiting variations

A more formal and emphatic way of indicating that variations are present.

while presenting contrasts

Shifts focus to the act of showing differences.

even if not identical

Downplays the degree of difference.

notwithstanding their disparities

A more formal way of acknowledging differences.

despite their dissimilarities

Highlights the lack of resemblance between the items.

in spite of their differences

Acknowledges existing differences as a challenge overcome.

FAQs

How can I use "while differing" in a sentence?

Use "while differing" to introduce a contrasting element or detail. For example, "The two proposals share a common goal, "while differing" in their methods of implementation".

What are some alternatives to "while differing"?

Some alternatives include "although varying", "even though distinct", or "despite their dissimilarities", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "while differing" when pointing out differences?

No, you can also use simpler conjunctions like 'but' or 'however'. "While differing" is best used when you want to acknowledge differences without negating underlying similarities.

What's the difference between "while differing" and "although different"?

"While differing" emphasizes the action of diverging, suggesting an ongoing process, whereas "although different" simply states a static condition of being unalike.