differ

[dif-er]

verb (used without object)

1. to be unlike, dissimilar, or distinct in nature or qualities (often followed byfrom ).

   The two writers differ greatly in their perceptions of the world. Each writer's style differs from that of another.

2. to disagree in opinion, belief, etc.; be at variance; disagree (often followed by with orfrom ).

   His business partner always differs with him.

3. Obsolete.,  to dispute; quarrel.

differ

/ ˈdɪfə /

verb

1. (often foll by from) to be dissimilar in quality, nature, or degree (to); vary (from)

2. to be at variance (with); disagree (with)

3. dialect,  to quarrel or dispute

4. to end an argument amicably while maintaining differences of opinion

Other Word Forms

• undiffering adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of differ¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English differren “to distinguish,” from Middle French differer “to put off, distinguish,” Latin differre “to bear apart, scatter, be different,” from dif- dif- + ferre “to bear, bring, carry”

Word History and Origins

Origin of differ¹

C14: from Latin differre, literally: to bear off in different directions, hence scatter, put off, be different, from dis- apart + ferre to bear

Idioms and Phrases

see beg to differ. Also see under difference; different.

Example Sentences

As much as their codependent friendship brings them closer, when spoken to at the same time, Roman and Dennis always differ in their answers, evincing an underlying disconnect.

From Los Angeles Times

But his moderate vision of Iran strongly differed from the ideas of Islamic hardline revolutionaries and was disliked and even resented by them.

From BBC

The names are selected to reflect the diversity of each region and assessed for pronunciation, differing meanings across countries, links to public figures, and potential controversy.

From BBC

Reports differ on what forces did and how long they stayed for.

From BBC

But Uefa's rules differ to the Premier League's, and Villa must be compliant over the next three years to avoid a further fine of £12.9m.

From BBC

Related Words

• alter 
• conflict with www.thesaurus.com
• contradict 
• contrast 
• disagree 
• diverge 
• modify 
• vary