What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
different
Example
The two dresses are different in color. [different: adjective]
Example
I feel different today than I did yesterday. [different: adverb]
Example
I have a different opinion on that matter. [different: adjective]
diverse
Example
Our team is diverse in terms of age, gender, and ethnicity. [diverse: adjective]
Example
The menu offers a diverse selection of dishes from different cultures. [diverse: adjective]
Example
We should celebrate the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our classmates. [diverse: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Different is more commonly used in everyday language, while diverse is more often used in academic or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between different and diverse?
Diverse is generally considered more formal than different, and is often used in academic or professional settings to emphasize inclusivity and acceptance of differences.
