Literary notes about differing (AI summary)
The word “differing” is employed to highlight nuanced distinctions—whether in nature, character, or concept—effectively drawing attention to variations that might otherwise appear subtle. In one passage, it distinguishes among natural forms as Lucretius contrasts seeds and pores [1], while in another, Austen uses it to imply that a day may carry different shades of misfortune [2]. Scientific discourse employs it to denote gradations in phenomena like refrangibility and vibration [3, 4], whereas literary depictions might use it to underscore differences in age, belief, or social standing [5, 6]. In each case, “differing” serves as a versatile lens through which authors invite readers to perceive both quantitative and qualitative contrasts within a broader, unified subject.
- But for some breathing creatures One odour is more apt, to others another— Because of differing forms of seeds and pores.
— from On the Nature of Things by Titus Lucretius Carus - It was a sad, anxious day; and the morrow, though differing in the sort of evil, did by no means bring less.
— from Mansfield Park by Jane Austen - So that there appeared as many Degrees of Colours, as there were sorts of Rays differing in Refrangibility.
— from Opticks : by Isaac Newton - "These tongues gave tones differing by 2 vibrations only in the two lower octaves, and by 4 vibrations in the three higher octaves.
— from The Principles of Psychology, Volume 1 (of 2) by William James - Destiny suddenly united and wedded with its irresistible power these two uprooted existences, differing in age, alike in sorrow.
— from Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - Individuals are commonly considered as differing in respect to such traits either quantitatively or qualitatively, either in degree or in kind.
— from Introduction to the Science of Sociology by E. W. Burgess and Robert Ezra Park
