What is the Difference Between Difference and Different?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The words "difference" and "different" are related terms, but they have different uses in grammar:

  • Difference: This term is used as a noun, referring to the way in which two or more things are not the same. It highlights the dissimilarity or contrast between two things, situations, or entities. For example, "The difference between a basketball and a volleyball is their sizes".
  • Different: This term is used as an adjective to describe how two or more things are not the same. It is used to modify a noun and can have relative forms as a noun. For example, "We are both different in terms of our mentality".

In summary:

  1. "Difference" is a noun that refers to the dissimilarity or contrast between two things.
  2. "Different" is an adjective used to describe how two or more things are not the same.

Comparative Table: Difference vs Different

The difference between "difference" and "different" lies in their usage and connotations. Here is a table that highlights the key differences between the two terms:

Term Meaning Usage
Difference An area or item of dissimilarity or disagreement. 1. Two structures differ in the frontal-occipital plane.
2. The differences between the women's and men's brains are mainly in the connected-ness of regions.
Different Distinct or separate, not the same as another. 1. Their findings significantly differ from those derived by Otake et al.
2. They bring in different perspectives and interpretations.

In summary, "difference" refers to an area or item of dissimilarity or disagreement, while "different" refers to something that is distinct or separate from another.