Different From or Different Than? Which One Is Correct

Quick Answer

"Different from" is the standard and most widely accepted form.

"Different than" is acceptable in American English, especially before clauses. "Different to" is used in British English.

The most widely accepted form in both British and American English. Always safe to use.

Common in American English, especially before clauses. Considered less formal.

Used in British English but less common than "different from."

Best practice: Use "different from" in formal writing and exams (IELTS, TOEFL) as it's universally accepted.

✔Your answer is different from mine. (Standard)

✔The result was different than we expected. (American English)

✔This is different to what I imagined. (British English)

✔Life in the city is very different from life in the countryside.

Before a noun/pronoun: Use "different from" → "different from you"
Before a clause: "Different than" is acceptable → "different than I thought"
Formal writing/exams: Always use "different from"
Avoid "different to" in American English contexts

Incorrect (in formal writing): The new version is different than the old one.

Correct (standard): The new version is different from the old one.

Choose the best answer for formal writing:

"Her approach is completely different _____ his." (from/than/to)