different
This word describes things that are not the same as each other. It is used to show a contrast between two or more people, places, or objects.
Examples
3 of 5My sister and I have different eye colors.
My sister and I have different eye colors.
The committee reviewed several different proposals.
The committee reviewed several different proposals.
Let's try a different pizza place tonight.
Let's try a different pizza place tonight.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'DIFFerence' as things that 'DRIFT' apart; they are no longer together or the same.
Quick Quiz
My cat is ________ from your cat.
Correct!
The correct answer is: different
Examples
My sister and I have different eye colors.
everydayMy sister and I have different eye colors.
The committee reviewed several different proposals.
formalThe committee reviewed several different proposals.
Let's try a different pizza place tonight.
informalLet's try a different pizza place tonight.
Researchers observed different results in each study.
academicResearchers observed different results in each study.
We need a different strategy to increase our sales.
businessWe need a different strategy to increase our sales.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
different strokes for different folks
different strokes for different folks
in a different league
in a different league
sing a different tune
sing a different tune
Often Confused With
Different means not the same, while difficult means hard to do.
Usage Notes
In British English, 'different to' is common, while in American English, 'different from' is more standard.
Common Mistakes
Learners often say 'different than' or 'different to'; 'different from' is usually the safest choice in most contexts.
Memory Tip
Think of 'DIFFerence' as things that 'DRIFT' apart; they are no longer together or the same.
Word Origin
From Latin 'differentem', meaning 'setting apart' or 'diverging'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Western cultures, being 'different' is often seen as a positive sign of individuality.
Quick Quiz
My cat is ________ from your cat.
Correct!
The correct answer is: different
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
To make someone or something different or to become differen...
contrastA contrast is a clear difference between two things when you...
varietyVariety refers to a collection of different things or types...
uniqueSomething that is unique is the only one of its kind or is v...
otherRefers to a person or thing that is different or distinct fr...
More comparison words
other
A1Refers to a person or thing that is different or distinct from the one already mentioned. It is also used to indicate something additional or remaining in a set.
same
A1The word 'same' is used to describe things or people that are identical or not different from each other. It indicates that two or more things are exactly alike in every way or are the very same entity.
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