Different Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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different

[ˈdɪf(ə)rənt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in comparison

not the same as another or each other; unlike in nature, form, or quality

Synonyms

disparate, distinct, diverse, various.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
different	Used to highlight items that are not the same. Can be used in general conversations. We have different opinions on this matter. These two books are very different.
distinct	Used to emphasize that something is clearly different and easily distinguishable. Often used to describe characteristics or identities. There are three distinct types of mushrooms in this forest. Her voice is distinct from all the others in the choir.
various	Used to describe multiple different items or people. Common in everyday conversation when referring to an assortment of things. We tried various dishes at the restaurant. She has lived in various countries around the world.
diverse	Used to describe a group or collection containing a wide variety of different elements. Often used in contexts related to culture, people, or opinions. The city has a diverse population. Our team is diverse in terms of skill sets and backgrounds.
disparate	Used to emphasize great differences between things that are not comparable or related. Often used in more formal or academic contexts. Their interests are quite disparate. The two cultures have disparate customs.

Examples of usage

The two brothers have different personalities.
She has a different approach to problem-solving than her colleagues.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

diversity

of various or distinct kinds

Synonyms

assorted, diverse, varied, various.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
different	Used when emphasizing the distinctness between two or more items or ideas. These two books have different themes She wore a different dress to the party
varied	Used when describing something that includes several different types or kinds. She has a varied skill set The menu offers a varied selection of dishes
assorted	Used when referring to a mixed collection of items that do not necessarily have a logical connection. He bought a bag of assorted candies There was a box of assorted tools in the garage
diverse	Used when emphasizing a wide range of variety, especially in terms of cultural, social, or biological aspects. The city is known for its diverse population The conference featured a diverse array of speakers
various	Used to highlight multiple different items within a group, often without specifying each one. We have various options to choose from There are various reasons for the delay

Examples of usage

The exhibition showcases different styles of art.
There are different opinions on the matter.

^{Context #3 | Adverb}

to a varying extent

in various or differing ways

Synonyms

disparately, distinctly, uniquely, variously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
different	Use this word when talking about something that is not the same as another. Apples and oranges are different fruits. She wore a different dress to each event.
distinctly	Use this word when something is very clear or unmistakable. I distinctly heard someone calling my name. The flavors in the dish were distinctly different.
uniquely	This word is used when something is the only one of its kind. Her style is uniquely her own. Each individual's fingerprint is uniquely different.
variously	This is used to describe something that occurs in different forms or ways. The event was described variously by different witnesses. The painting was interpreted variously by art critics.
disparately	This word is used for things that are fundamentally different and not comparable. It often implies a significant contrast. The two departments function disparately. Their opinions on the matter were disparately opposed.

Examples of usage

The rules are applied differently depending on the situation.
She treats each student differently based on their needs.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'different'

The word 'different' originated from the Latin word 'differentem', which means 'to separate'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Over time, 'different' has evolved to represent the concept of uniqueness and diversity. The word is commonly used in various contexts to describe variations, distinctions, or contrasts.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #128, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.

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125 following
126 general
127 law
128 different
129 power
130 small
131 last
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