"difference between" vs "difference of"

Question

"difference between" vs "difference of"

Both 'difference between' and 'difference of' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Difference between' is used when comparing two or more things, while 'difference of' is used when specifying the nature of the difference in a more formal or technical context.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

Use 'difference between' when comparing two or more things to highlight the distinctions or variations between them.

Examples:

What is the difference between a cat and a dog?
Can you explain the difference between these two concepts?
There is a clear difference between the two products.
She couldn't tell the difference between the two paintings.
Spotting the difference between the twins was challenging.

Alternatives:

contrast between
distinction between
discrepancy between
disparity between
variation between

Use 'difference of' when specifying the nature of the difference in a more formal or technical context, such as in academic writing or scientific discussions.

Examples:

The difference of opinion among the team members led to a delay in the project.
The book explores the difference of approach between the two political ideologies.
Can you explain the difference of structure in these two chemical compounds?
The study focused on the difference of behavior in various cultural groups.
The professor highlighted the difference of results in the two experiments.

Alternatives:

discrepancy of
variation of
contrast of
disparity of
distinction of

Answer 1

difference between

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when comparing two or more things.

Answer 2

difference of

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in everyday language. It is more suitable for formal or technical contexts.

"difference between" vs "difference of"

difference between

difference of

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