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be different
/bi ˈdɪf(ə)r(ə)nt/
not the same
Her opinion is different from mine.
Her opinion is not the same as mine.
neutral
to not be the same as someone or something else
These two paintings are very different.
These two paintings are not similar.
His approach to the problem is different from yours.
His method is not the same as yours.
Used to compare people, things, or ideas to highlight their dissimilarity.
Collocations
be very differentsignificantly dissimilarbe completely differententirely dissimilarlook differentappear dissimilarsound differentseem dissimilar
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Use 'be different' for comparisons
Follow the phrase with 'from' to specify what is being compared: 'This book is different from that one.'
Gold Rule
Avoid redundancy
Do not use 'be different' with 'not' in the same clause unless emphasizing negation: 'It is not different from the original.' is correct; 'It is not different' is acceptable but less precise.
Word Origin
The phrase combines the Old English 'be' (to exist) and Latin 'different-' (from 'differre', meaning 'to carry apart'). The concept of difference has been central to human cognition since ancient times, with linguistic expressions evolving to describe distinctions.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in comparisons, often followed by 'from' to specify the contrasting element. It can describe physical appearance, personality traits, opinions, or abstract concepts.
Word Breakdown
be
to exist or have a particular state
verbdifferent
not the same as another or each other
adjectiveEnglish Dictionary