01
unterschiedlich
different
Not the same; differing from something else in one or more characteristics.
example
Die beiden Brüder haben sehr unterschiedliche Interessen.
The two brothers have very different interests.
unterschiedlich
different
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word formation
'Unterschiedlich' (different) is derived directly from the noun 'der Unterschied' (the difference). If you know the noun, you can easily work out the meaning of the adjective: it means 'showing a difference'.
EXAMPLE
Trotz ihres ähnlichen Aussehens haben die Zwillinge unterschiedliche Persönlichkeiten.
Despite their similar appearance, the twins have different personalities.
Sentence structure and usage
When comparing two things, you can say 'A und B sind unterschiedlich' (A and B are different). You can also use the structure 'A ist unterschiedlich von B' (A is different from B) with the preposition 'von' and the dative.
EXAMPLE
Meine Meinung ist unterschiedlich von deiner.
My opinion is different from yours.
Usage with plural
When 'unterschiedlich' stands before a plural noun, it often means 'different kinds of'. It emphasizes the variety within a group.
EXAMPLE
Das Museum zeigt Kunst aus unterschiedlichen Epochen.
The museum shows art from various eras.
Adverbial usage
As an adverb, 'unterschiedlich' describes the way something happens. In this case, it is not declined and usually stands in the middle or at the end of the sentence.
EXAMPLE
Die Geschwister entwickelten sich sehr unterschiedlich.
The siblings developed very differently.
Compare with
unterschiedlich vs ander
other / different
'ander' and 'unterschiedlich' can both say that something is not the same. 'ander' is often used when you replace or compare one thing with a new thing or not the same thing. 'unterschiedlich' emphasizes more strongly that several things have different characteristics. With two options, both can fit, but the perspective is different: 'ein anderes Buch' (a different book) means not the same book, while 'unterschiedliche Bücher' (different books) means books with different features.
unterschiedlich
Bei den Eltern sieht sie, dass die Geräte unterschiedlich funktionieren.
At her parents' house, she sees that the devices work differently.
ander
Heute nehme ich ein anderes Heft mit in die Schule.
Today I am taking a different notebook to school.
In real life
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