Translation guide
The English word "different" can be expressed in Japanese through several adjectives and verbs, depending on whether you mean "not the same," "various," or "another." The most common word is 違う (chigau), but 異なる (kotonaru) is used in formal contexts, and 別の (betsu no) means "another" or "separate."
Expressing that two or more things are not identical or have different qualities.
The most common and versatile word for "different." Used in casual and polite speech. Can also mean "wrong" or "incorrect."
My opinion is different from yours.
These two colors are different.
A more formal and written equivalent of 違う. Often used in academic or official contexts.
The results were different from what was expected.
A common pattern meaning "unlike ~" or "different from ~." Used to contrast two things.
Unlike my older brother, I'm not good at sports.
A formal noun meaning "difference" or "discrepancy." Used in legal, technical, or business contexts.
There is a difference of opinion between the two parties.
Indicating that there are multiple kinds or types of something.
A common na-adjective meaning "various" or "diverse." Used to describe a range of different things.
I was late for various reasons.
A more casual and conversational word for "various." Often used in daily speech.
I met various people.
Can also mean "different" in the sense of "various" when used with plural nouns, often in formal writing.
Referring to a different item or person, not the same one.
違う (chigau) is the everyday word for "different" and can also mean "wrong." 異なる (kotonaru) is more formal and used in writing or official speech. In casual conversation, 違う is almost always preferred.
When you mean "a different one" (another item), use 別の (betsu no) or 他の (hoka no), not 違う. 違う describes a quality of being different, not a separate entity.
Please give me a different book.
That's a completely different matter.
My opinion is different from yours.
異なる分野の専門家が集まった。
Experts from different fields gathered.