When it comes to language, small differences can have a big impact on how we communicate. One example of this is the difference between the words “different” and “differently.” While they may seem interchangeable, there are actually specific situations where one word is more appropriate than the other.
It’s important to understand the definitions of each word. “Different” is an adjective that means not the same as something else, while “differently” is an adverb that means in a different manner or way. So, while “different” describes a noun, “differently” describes a verb or action.
So, which word is the proper one to use? The answer is that it depends on the context. If you’re describing a noun, such as “different types of flowers,” then “different” is the correct word to use. However, if you’re describing how something is done, such as “I approach the task differently,” then “differently” is the better choice.
Understanding the difference between “different” and “differently” can help you communicate more clearly and effectively. In the rest of this article, we’ll explore some specific situations where one word is more appropriate than the other, and provide examples to help you understand when to use each word.
Define Different
When we say something is different, we mean that it is not the same as something else. It can be used to describe anything that is distinct, separate, or dissimilar from another thing. For example, two people may have different opinions on a topic, or two cars may have different colors.
It is important to note that the word “different” is an adjective, meaning it is used to modify or describe a noun. It cannot be used as an adverb to describe a verb, which is where “differently” comes into play.
Define Differently
Differently is an adverb that is used to describe how something is done or how something happens. It is used to modify verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs. For example, if someone says they approach a problem differently, they mean that they approach it in a way that is not the same as others.
It can also be used to describe how someone behaves or thinks, as in “he thinks differently than most people.” In this case, it means that his thoughts are not the same as what is considered typical or common.
| Word | Part of speech | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| different | adjective | Used to describe a noun that is distinct or dissimilar from another |
| differently | adverb | Used to describe how something is done or how someone behaves or thinks |
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When it comes to using the English language, there are many rules to follow. One of the most common mistakes people make is confusing the words “different” and “differently”. In this article, we will explore the proper usage of these two words and provide examples to help you better understand them.
How To Use “Different” In A Sentence
The word “different” is an adjective that is used to describe something that is not the same as something else. It is important to note that “different” is always followed by the preposition “from”. Here are some examples:
- My car is different from yours.
- The two paintings are different from each other.
- I like to try different foods when I travel.
As you can see, “different” is used to compare two or more things that are not the same. It is also used to describe a variety of things.
How To Use “Differently” In A Sentence
The word “differently” is an adverb that is used to describe how something is done or how it differs from something else. It is important to note that “differently” is always used to modify a verb. Here are some examples:
- I approach the problem differently than you do.
- She speaks French differently than I do.
- They reacted differently to the news.
As you can see, “differently” is used to describe how something is done or how it differs from something else. It is also used to describe how people react to situations.
Understanding the proper usage of “different” and “differently” is important for effective communication in the English language. Remember that “different” is used to compare two or more things that are not the same, while “differently” is used to describe how something is done or how it differs from something else. By following these simple rules, you can avoid common mistakes and improve your writing and speaking skills.
More Examples Of Different & Differently Used In Sentences
Understanding the correct usage of “different” and “differently” is essential in effective communication. Let’s take a look at more examples of how these words can be used in sentences.
Examples Of Using “Different” In A Sentence
- My sister and I have different personalities.
- The two paintings are different in style.
- I have a different opinion on the matter.
- She wants to try something different for dinner.
- The two cars have different engines.
- His approach to the problem was different from mine.
- The two books have different themes.
- The two languages are different in structure.
- We come from different backgrounds.
- The two dresses are different in color.
Examples Of Using “Differently” In A Sentence
- She approached the situation differently than I did.
- The two artists paint differently.
- He speaks differently depending on the audience.
- She treated the two patients differently.
- The two companies operate differently.
- They reacted differently to the news.
- The two teachers grade papers differently.
- He handles stress differently than most people.
- The two chefs cook differently.
- She manages her time differently than her coworkers.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using the words different and differently, many people tend to interchange them without realizing that they have different meanings. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Using “Different” As An Adverb
One of the most common mistakes people make is using “different” as an adverb instead of “differently.” For example, saying “I approach the problem different” instead of “I approach the problem differently.” The word “different” is an adjective that describes a noun, while “differently” is an adverb that describes a verb. Using “different” as an adverb is grammatically incorrect and can make your writing sound unprofessional.
2. Using “Differently” To Describe A Noun
Another mistake people make is using “differently” to describe a noun instead of “different.” For example, saying “I like the taste of this apple differently” instead of “I like the taste of this apple different.” The word “different” is used to compare two or more things, while “differently” is used to describe how something is done. Using “differently” to describe a noun is incorrect and can confuse your readers.
3. Using “Different” Instead Of “Unique”
Some people use “different” when they mean “unique.” For example, saying “This is a different approach to the problem” instead of “This is a unique approach to the problem.” While “different” can mean “not the same,” “unique” means “one of a kind.” Using “different” instead of “unique” can make your writing sound less precise and can weaken your argument.
4. Using “Different” As A Substitute For A More Specific Word
Finally, some people use “different” as a substitute for a more specific word. For example, saying “I have a different feeling about this” instead of “I have a conflicting feeling about this.” While “different” can be used to describe a variety of things, using a more specific word can make your writing more precise and engaging.
Tips To Avoid These Mistakes
- Always double-check your writing to make sure you are using the right word.
- Try to use more specific words when possible to make your writing more precise.
- Read your writing out loud to see if it sounds correct.
- Ask someone else to read your writing and give you feedback.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between “different” and “differently,” context is key. While both words are adjectives that describe variations or distinctions between things, they are used in different ways and can have different meanings depending on the context in which they are used.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Here are some examples of different contexts where the choice between “different” and “differently” might change:
- Comparing Two Things: When comparing two things, “different” is used to describe how they are not the same. For example, “The two cars have different colors.”
- Describing a Manner of Doing Something: When describing how something is done, “differently” is used to indicate a change in the way it is typically done. For example, “She approached the situation differently than her colleagues.”
- Expressing an Opinion: When expressing an opinion, “different” can be used to indicate a preference or a unique perspective. For example, “I have a different opinion on the matter.”
- Indicating a Quantity: When indicating a quantity, “different” can be used to describe how many distinct items there are. For example, “There are five different flavors of ice cream.”
As you can see, the choice between “different” and “differently” depends on the context in which they are used. Understanding the nuances of their usage can help you communicate more effectively and precisely in your writing.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using different and differently are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where these rules might not apply. Here are a few examples:
1. Adjective Vs Adverb
One exception to the rule is when different is used as an adjective and differently is used as an adverb. In this case, different is used to describe a noun, while differently is used to describe a verb. For example:
- The two sisters have different personalities.
- The two sisters behave differently in social situations.
In the first sentence, different is used as an adjective to describe the noun personalities. In the second sentence, differently is used as an adverb to describe the verb behave.
2. Idiomatic Expressions
Another exception to the rule is when different and differently are used in idiomatic expressions. These expressions have a special meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words. Here are a few examples:
| Idiomatic Expression | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Think different | Think creatively or unconventionally |
| Act differently | Behave in an unusual or unexpected way |
| See things differently | Have a different perspective or point of view |
In these expressions, different and differently are used to convey a specific meaning that is not related to their literal definitions.
3. Colloquial Language
Finally, there are some instances where different and differently are used in colloquial language in a way that does not follow the standard rules of grammar. For example:
- “I feel different about the situation now.”
- “I think differently about the situation now.”
In these sentences, different and differently are used interchangeably to convey a similar meaning. While this usage is not technically correct, it is commonly used in informal speech and writing.
Practice Exercises
Improving your understanding and usage of different and differently can be challenging, but with practice exercises, it can become second nature. Here are some exercises to help you:
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Choose the correct word to fill in the blank in the following sentences:
| Sentence | Word Choices |
| The two dresses looked ____________. | different / differently |
| She sings ____________ than her sister. | different / differently |
| The two books have ____________ covers. | different / differently |
Answer Key:
- different
- differently
- different
Exercise 2: Rewrite The Sentence
Rewrite the following sentences using the correct form of different or differently:
- The two paintings look the same.
- He speaks with a strong accent.
- She approached the problem in a unique way.
Answer Key:
- The two paintings look different.
- He speaks differently.
- She approached the problem in a different way.
By practicing with these exercises, you can improve your understanding and usage of different and differently in sentences. Keep practicing and soon it will become second nature!
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the difference between “different” and “differently” is crucial for effective communication. “Different” is an adjective used to describe a noun, while “differently” is an adverb used to modify a verb or adjective. Misusing these words can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.
It is important to pay attention to the context in which these words are used to ensure proper usage. Additionally, expanding one’s knowledge of grammar and language use can greatly improve communication skills.
Key Takeaways
- “Different” is an adjective used to describe a noun.
- “Differently” is an adverb used to modify a verb or adjective.
- Misusing these words can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.
- Pay attention to the context in which these words are used to ensure proper usage.
- Expanding one’s knowledge of grammar and language use can greatly improve communication skills.
By keeping these key takeaways in mind, readers can improve their writing and speaking abilities. It is important to continue learning about grammar and language use to become a more effective communicator.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.