Differently
/ˈdɪfərəntli/
Definitions
In a manner or way that is unlike another; in a distinct or contrasting way.
/ˈdɪfərəntli/
In a way that is not the same.
Each student approached the assignment differently.
💡 Simply: It's like when you and your friend do the same thing, but you do it in a totally unique way. For example, you might both paint a picture, but yours uses different colors or a different style.
👶 For kids: When you do something in a way that's not the same as someone else!
More Examples
They see the world differently than I do.
The new software functions differently than the old one.
How It's Used
"They approach problems differently."
"We need to market our products differently to reach a wider audience."
Idioms & expressions
think differently
To have a new or innovative perspective; to consider things in a new way.
"The company encourages employees to think differently to foster innovation."
From 'different' + '-ly'. 'Different' comes from Latin 'differens' (present participle of 'differre', meaning 'to carry apart, to differ').
Historically, 'differently' has consistently meant 'in a different manner or way,' although its frequency of use has increased significantly in modern English.
Memory tip
Think of a fork and a spoon; they're used for eating, but differently.