What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
differing
Example
The two friends had differing opinions on the best restaurant in town. [differing: adjective]
Example
The differing viewpoints on the issue led to a heated debate. [differing: gerund or present participle]
different
Example
I prefer different types of music depending on my mood. [different: adjective]
Example
The two paintings are different in style and technique. [different: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Different is more commonly used than differing in everyday language. Different is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while differing is less common and refers to specific situations involving disagreements or variations in opinion.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between differing and different?
Both differing and different are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
