different
adjective
UK/ˈdɪf.rənt/US/ˈdɪf.rənt/
Unusual; not typical or ordinary.
Example Sentences
He has a different way of thinking that makes him stand out from others.
The artwork has a different style compared to traditional paintings.
She wore a different outfit to the party, which caught everyone's attention.
The weather today is different from what we expected, with unexpected rain showers.
Their approach to solving the problem is different but equally effective.
He has different perspectives that contribute to the diversity of the team.
The technology used in this device is different from the previous models.
They took a different route to avoid the traffic congestion downtown.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
Indicates a distinction or dissimilarity from something else.As an adjective, this term highlights that two or more items, ideas, or people are not alike. You might say, “Her approach is different from mine,” emphasizing a contrast in methods. In everyday usage, it often appears when comparing options—“This phone is different in design,” or highlighting uniqueness—“They have a very different outlook on life.” By specifying what it differs from, you clarify the key variations or distinctions. Sometimes, “different” can underscore minor variations (“a slightly different flavor”) or major disparities (“a completely different set of rules”). Whether referencing personality traits, appearances, strategies, or objects, it signals divergence from a known norm or another object of comparison. Pair it with ‘from’ or ‘than’ to structure the comparison: “It’s different from what I expected,” or “This result is different than we anticipated.” In all cases, it underscores how one thing stands apart from another.
Alternatives
If you’d like to avoid repeating “different,” terms like “distinct,” “unlike,” or “dissimilar” work as synonyms. “Distinct” can imply clear boundaries or recognizable uniqueness—“These two paintings are distinct in style.” “Unlike” takes a more direct comparative angle, requiring a reference point—“Unlike his sister, he prefers quiet weekends.” “Dissimilar” often appears in more formal or technical contexts—“Their genetic profiles are dissimilar.” Meanwhile, “varied” or “various” can hint at diversity within a set, rather than pointing to a single contrast. For casual contrast, “not the same” or “another kind” might suffice. Choosing synonyms keeps your language fresh and can subtly shift emphasis—whether on clarity (“distinct”), overall difference (“unlike”), or formality (“dissimilar”).
Writing
When writing, “different” can serve as a straightforward way to compare or contrast elements. In essays or analyses, you might highlight how theories or findings diverge—“The second study reached a different conclusion.” If repetition is an issue, use “distinct” or “contrasting” for variety. Be specific about what sets them apart—citing data, features, or perspectives—so readers see how or why something is different. In descriptive passages, “different” can pinpoint variety or uniqueness—“The exhibit showcased different eras of art history.” For a more nuanced approach, link “different” with context—“Their cultural backgrounds gave rise to different assumptions about the project.” This clarifies the factors causing divergence. In persuasive or comparative writing, pair it with evidence—“Different approaches yielded varying outcomes,” then detail each. Above all, ensure your explanation pinpoints how items differ, so “different” feels purposeful and illuminates the reader’s understanding of these contrasts.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, you might say, “We’re trying a different restaurant tonight,” signaling a change from the usual. Friends often note “You look different today—did you cut your hair?” to spot small personal changes. People also talk about experiences: “That was a very different style of concert,” describing something outside typical expectations. If you’re repeating it, switch to “not the same” or “another kind,” e.g., “Let’s try another style,” to keep dialogue lively. Generally, “different” in everyday speech underscores something new or unusual relative to a norm. You might compliment a friend with, “I like how different your taste is,” or critique a situation: “Work’s different this week—our manager’s on leave.” Tone can range from excited (“I like trying different things!”) to uncertain (“This sauce tastes different…”). In all cases, it denotes stepping away from the familiar, whether it’s a small everyday observation or a bigger life change.
Etymology
The adjective “different” stems from Latin “differens,” the present participle of “differre,” meaning “to set apart” or “to carry apart.” The root “dis-” conveys separation, and “ferre” means “to bear” or “to carry.” This notion of “carrying things apart” underscores how “different” highlights separation or divergence. Migrating through Old French into Middle English, it retained the idea of marking a contrast or gap between entities. Over time, it became a staple in English to discuss any manner of dissimilarity—be it subtle distinctions or stark contrasts. Whether describing unique qualities of objects, ideas, or individuals, “different” preserves that original sense of pulling them apart in comparison, affirming they are “not the same.”