Translation guide
The English phrase "be different" can be expressed in Japanese through adjectives, verbs, and set phrases. The most common and versatile way is the adjective 違う (chigau), which means "to differ" or "to be different." Other options include 異なる (kotonaru) for more formal or written contexts, and expressions like 別だ (betsu da) when emphasizing separateness or distinction. The choice depends on the nuance and context.
Expressing that something is not the same as something else, in a general sense.
The most common and versatile way to say "be different." Used in both spoken and written Japanese. Can be used for differences in opinion, appearance, nature, etc.
My opinion is different from yours.
These two colors are different.
A more formal and literary synonym for 違う. Often used in written language, academic contexts, or formal speeches.
Customs differ depending on the culture.
Emphasizes that two things are separate or distinct, not just different in quality. Often implies they are not the same thing or category.
That's a different issue altogether.
Highlighting that something is fundamentally different in kind or character.
Still the default choice, but can be emphasized with adverbs.
His way of thinking is fundamentally different.
Means 'heterogeneous' or 'different in quality.' Used when emphasizing that something is of a completely different nature.
These two cultures are different in nature.
Describing that something looks or seems different from before or from others.
Works for any visible or perceivable difference.
You seem different today (from usual).
Literally 'has changed,' but often used to mean 'is different (from the norm)' or 'is unusual.' Implies a deviation from a previous state or standard.
His clothes are always different (unusual).
Clarifying that two things are not the same, often in explanations.
A common pattern to explicitly state that A and B are different.
'Kiku' (to hear) and 'kiku' (to listen) are different.
Used to separate one thing from another, often to avoid confusion.
Hobbies and work are different (separate) things.
違う is the everyday word for 'different.' 異なる is more formal and often used in writing or formal speech. In casual conversation, 違う is almost always preferred. 異なる can sound stiff or academic.
The price is different. (casual)
The price differs. (formal)
違う can also mean 'wrong' or 'incorrect' when used in certain contexts, like pointing out a mistake. Be careful: if you say 'それは違う' it can mean 'That's different' or 'That's wrong' depending on the situation. To avoid ambiguity, use 間違っている (machigatte iru) for 'wrong.'
The answer is different/wrong. (ambiguous)
The answer is wrong. (clear)