Different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness . . . .
R E F E R E N C E S
Differentiation n [1802] 1: the act or process of differentiating 2: development from the one to the many, the simple to the complex, or the homogenous to the heterogeneous 3a: modification of body parts for performance of particular functions b: the sum of the processes whereby apparently indifferent cells, tissues and structures attain their adult form and function 4: the processes by which various rock types are produced from a common magma
Differentiate vt [1816] a: to obtain the mathematical derivative of 2: to mark or show a difference in : constitute a difference that distinguishes 3: to develop differential characteristics in 4: to cause differentiation of in the course of development 5: to express the specific distinguishing quality of: Discriminate -vi 1: to recognize or give expression to a difference 2: to become distinct or different in character 3: to undergo differentiation
Difference n [14c] 1a: the quality or state of being different b: an instance of differing in nature, form, or quality c archaic: a characteristic that distinguishes one from another or from the average d: the element or factor that separates or distinguishes contrasting situations 2: distinction or discrimination in preference 3a: disagreement in opinion: Dissension b: an instance or cause of disagreement 4: the degree or amount by which things differ in quantity or measure; specif: Remainder 2b[1] 5: a significant change in or effect on a situation
1 Different adj [MF, fr. L different-, differens, prp. of differre] [14c] 1: partly or totally unlike in nature, form, or quality: Dissimilar [could hardly be more __] -often folled by from, than, or chiefly Brit. to [small, neat hand, very __ from the captain's tottery characters -R. L. Stevenson] [vastly __ in size than it was twenty-five years ago -N. M. Pusey] [a very __ situation to the ... one under which we live -Sir Winston Churchill] 2: not the same; as a: Distinct [__ age groups] b: Various [__ members of the class] c: Another [switched to a __ TV program] 3: Unusual, Special [she was __ and superior]
-Syn Different, Diverse, Divergent, Disparate, Various mean unlike in kind or character. Different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness [different foods]. Diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast [such diverse interests as dancing and football]. Divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation [went on to pursue divergent careers]. Disparate emphasized incongruity or incompatibility [diparate notions of freedom]. Various stresses the number of sorts or kinds [tried various methods].
-Usuage Numerous commentators have condemned different than in spite of its use since the 17th c. by many of the best-known names in English literature. It is neverthelss standard and is even recommended in many handbooks when followed by a clause. Different from, the generally safe choice, is more common and is even used in constructions where than would work more smoothly.
Differentia n pl -tiae [1690] an element, feature, or factor that distinguishes one entity, state, or class from another; esp: a characteristic trait distinguishing a species from other species of the same genus
1 Differential 1a: of, relating to, or constituting a difference: Distinguishing b: making a distinction between individuals or classes c: based on or resulting from a differential d: functioning or proceeding differently or at a different rate 2: being relating to, or involving a differential or differentiation 3a: relating to quantitative differences b: producing effects by reason of quantiative differences
2 Differential n [1704] 1a: the product of the derivative of a function of one variable by the increment of the independent variable b: a sum of products in whcih each product consists of a partial derivative of a given function of several variables multiplied by the corresponding increment and which contains as many products as there are independent variables in the function 2: a difference between comparable individuals or clases [a price __]; also: the amount of such a difference 3a: Differential Gear b: a case covering a differential gear
Differential calculus n [1702]: a branch of mathematics concerned chiefly with the study of the rate of change of functions with respect to their variables esp. through the use of derivatives and differentials
Differential equation n [1763]: an equation containing differentials or derivatives of functions -compare Partial Differential Equation
[Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 10th Edition. Springfield, MA, USA: Merriam-Webster, Inc. 1995.]
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