# differently

/ˈdɪfɝˈɛntɫi/ (US) · /dˈɪfɹəntli/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/differently
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

in a way that is not the same. You use this when you want to show that two things are done in various ways or that someone has changed their mind.

For teachers: in a manner that is distinct or dissimilar from another. Often used to indicate a contrast in behavior, thought, or method.

## Examples

- I think about this problem differently now.
- The two sisters dress very differently even though they share most of their clothes.
- If we approach the negotiation differently this time, focusing on shared goals rather than individual demands, we might finally reach a compromise that satisfies both parties.

## Pitfalls

- Not "She speaks different than me" but "She speaks differently than me" — Learners often use the adjective 'different' when the adverb 'differently' is required to modify a verb.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed after the verb or the direct object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.