In contrast to earlier findings
Research methodology and reporting expression
Use this phrase to professionally highlight a shift in facts or research results.
In 15 Sekunden
- Used to show how new data differs from old data.
- Common in academic writing, business reports, and news.
- Signals a professional contradiction of previous information.
Bedeutung
This phrase is used to point out that a new discovery or result is different from what people found in the past. It is like saying, 'We used to think one thing, but now we see something else.'
Wichtige Beispiele
3 von 6Presenting a quarterly report
In contrast to earlier findings, our customer retention has actually increased this month.
In contrast to earlier findings, our customer retention has actually increased this month.
Discussing a health study
In contrast to earlier findings, this new study suggests coffee might improve longevity.
In contrast to earlier findings, this new study suggests coffee might improve longevity.
Explaining a car repair
In contrast to earlier findings, the mechanic discovered the engine is actually fine.
In contrast to earlier findings, the mechanic discovered the engine is actually fine.
Kultureller Hintergrund
This phrase is a cornerstone of academic and intellectual honesty in English-speaking cultures. It reflects the value placed on 'falsifiability'—the idea that any theory can be updated with better evidence. It became a standard transition in the 20th century as research papers became more structured.
The Comma is Key
Always place a comma after the phrase. It helps the reader separate the 'old' context from your 'new' discovery.
Don't be a Robot
If you use this phrase three times in one paragraph, you'll sound like a textbook. Mix it up with 'However' or 'Conversely'.
In 15 Sekunden
- Used to show how new data differs from old data.
- Common in academic writing, business reports, and news.
- Signals a professional contradiction of previous information.
What It Means
Think of this phrase as a bridge between the past and the present. It tells your listener that the old information is no longer the whole story. You are introducing a surprise or a correction. It is very common in science and business. It highlights progress and change in knowledge.
How To Use It
You usually put this phrase at the very start of a sentence. Follow it with a comma to let the reader breathe. Then, state your new, updated fact. It works best when you have a specific 'old' study or 'old' idea to compare against. It makes your argument look well-researched and serious.
When To Use It
Use it during a formal presentation at work. Use it when writing an essay for university. It is perfect for news reports about health or technology. If you are debating a serious topic with friends, it adds weight to your words. It shows you are looking at the evidence, not just guessing.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using this for small, personal daily choices. Do not say it when choosing a flavor of ice cream. It sounds way too dramatic for a casual lunch. If you use it while texting about your weekend, your friends might think you are joking. Keep it for moments that involve data or shared knowledge.
Cultural Background
Western culture values the 'Scientific Method' very highly. This means we are always looking to update our facts. Being proven wrong is actually seen as a good thing in science. This phrase represents that spirit of constant discovery. It shows that human knowledge is always moving forward.
Common Variations
You might hear people say Contrary to previous studies. Another version is Unlike earlier results. Some people prefer Diverging from past data. All of these do the same job. They all signal that the 'old' news is being replaced by 'new' news.
Nutzungshinweise
This is a C1-level academic expression. It requires a high level of formality and is most effective in written reports or structured debates.
The Comma is Key
Always place a comma after the phrase. It helps the reader separate the 'old' context from your 'new' discovery.
Don't be a Robot
If you use this phrase three times in one paragraph, you'll sound like a textbook. Mix it up with 'However' or 'Conversely'.
The 'Polite' Contradiction
In English, this is a very polite way to tell someone they were wrong. It shifts the blame to the 'findings' rather than the person.
Beispiele
6In contrast to earlier findings, our customer retention has actually increased this month.
In contrast to earlier findings, our customer retention has actually increased this month.
This shows the speaker is correcting a previous, perhaps more pessimistic, assumption.
In contrast to earlier findings, this new study suggests coffee might improve longevity.
In contrast to earlier findings, this new study suggests coffee might improve longevity.
A classic way to introduce a health-related news story.
In contrast to earlier findings, the mechanic discovered the engine is actually fine.
In contrast to earlier findings, the mechanic discovered the engine is actually fine.
Used here to provide a serious update on a technical problem.
In contrast to earlier findings (the trailer), the movie was actually quite boring.
In contrast to earlier findings (the trailer), the movie was actually quite boring.
A slightly humorous, overly-formal way to describe a personal opinion change.
In contrast to earlier findings, the ice shelf is melting faster than predicted.
In contrast to earlier findings, the ice shelf is melting faster than predicted.
Very formal and serious, used to convey urgent scientific data.
In contrast to earlier findings, I've realized I actually enjoy living in a big city.
In contrast to earlier findings, I've realized I actually enjoy living in a big city.
Using formal language to describe a deep personal realization.
Teste dich selbst
Choose the correct phrase to show a change in research results.
___, the new data shows that the treatment is effective.
This phrase correctly signals that the new data contradicts what was found previously.
Where should the comma go when using this phrase?
In contrast to earlier findings ___ the team discovered a new planet.
Introductory phrases in English sentences are typically followed by a comma.
🎉 Ergebnis: /2
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Formality of 'In contrast to earlier findings'
Talking to a roommate about pizza.
Actually, I changed my mind.
Explaining a mistake to a coworker.
Unlike what I thought before...
Writing a thesis or business report.
In contrast to earlier findings...
A legal or scientific publication.
Notwithstanding prior empirical data...
When to use 'In contrast to earlier findings'
Science Lab
Reporting a failed experiment that worked before.
Boardroom
Showing sales are better than the forecast.
TV News
Updating the public on a weather pattern.
University
Writing the 'Results' section of a paper.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenIn this context, findings refers to the results of a study, investigation, or data analysis. It is what you 'found' out after looking at the facts.
You can, but it sounds very formal. Use it if you want to sound smart or if you are joking about being overly serious.
No, it can be about anything where data is involved. You could use it in marketing, finance, or even police investigations.
However is a general contrast word. In contrast to earlier findings specifically points to a timeline where old info is being replaced.
Yes, In contrast with is also correct and means the same thing. To is slightly more common in academic writing.
Usually, yes. It sets the stage for the rest of the sentence. You can put it in the middle, but it requires more commas.
It is used equally in all major English-speaking countries. It is a standard part of international academic English.
Try using Contrary to previous reports or Diverging from earlier data to keep your writing interesting.
Not at all. It is very modern and is used every day in high-level professional environments.
Yes! It’s a funny way to say you were wrong. For example: In contrast to earlier findings, I cannot actually eat a whole pizza alone.
Verwandte Redewendungen
Contrary to popular belief
Used when something is true even though most people think it is false.
On the contrary
Used to intensify a denial or contradiction.
As opposed to
Used to highlight a direct comparison or choice between two things.
Diverging from
Moving away from a previous path, idea, or set of data.
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