Tag Archive - Different From vs. Different Than

Are You Different From or Different Than?

Comparisons. We live in a world in which we are often called upon to make comparisons. Does WalMart or Target have the better price on something? Is Brad Pitt a better actor than Paul Rudd? Are you comparing these with or to each other?

It seems like a small distinction, but most writers guides agree that if you are noting the similarities between two things, comparing to is the correct terminology. If you’re pointing out differences, you use compared with.

  • Robert compared Barnes and Nobles’s prices to Amazon’s. (comparing similar things)
  • Australia is in a good economic position compared with other many other countries. (comparing one country with another)

Speaking of differences, is there a difference between different from and different than? A slight one, most grammarians agree, though for much of history they have been used interchangeably. Different from means “not the same.” Use it to convey contrast. Continue Reading…