Another vs. Other: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on November 18, 2023
"Another" refers to one more or an additional item of the same kind, while "Other" refers to something different or distinct from one already mentioned.
Key Differences
"Another" suggests a continuation or addition of something similar, implying a like-kind or type. "Other," conversely, distinguishes something from a set or group, highlighting a difference.
In the context of quantity, "Another" typically implies a singular addition. For instance, asking for another cookie implies one more cookie. "Other," on the hand, can be more versatile, often denoting one or more items that differ from the original reference.
When emphasizing choice, "Another" usually hints at a similar option. For example, choosing another book by the same author. "Other," however, introduces alternative choices, such as exploring books by other authors.
In daily communication, "Another" often offers a sense of familiarity or sameness, as in revisiting an experience. "Other," conversely, introduces something new, different, or unfamiliar.
Context can change the usage slightly. "Another" can imply a replacement in some cases, like wanting another chance. In contrast, "Other" might indicate a preference for variety, as in trying other flavors.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
One more of the same kind.
Different from one already mentioned.
Quantity
Typically singular.
Can be singular or plural based on context.
Implication
Familiarity or sameness.
Difference or distinction.
Usage
Refers to an additional item or experience.
Refers to alternative items or experiences.
Contextual Meaning
Can imply a continuation or replacement.
Often indicates a preference for variety or an alternative.
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Another and Other Definitions
Another
Different from the first mentioned.
That's one reason, but that's another story.
Other
Referring to the remaining one of two.
One hand was cold, the other was warm.
Another
Signifying a replacement.
Can I get another chance?
Other
Additional or further.
She has other concerns.
Another
Referring to an additional instance.
That's another example of his kindness.
Other
Different or alternative.
Any other questions?
Another
One more of the same type.
She wanted another cookie.
Other
Of a different kind or character.
That's an entirely other matter.
Another
Used to suggest an alternative.
Maybe another time.
Other
Being the remaining one of two or more
The other ear.
Another
One more; an additional
Had another cup of coffee.
Other
Being the remaining ones of several
His other books are still in storage.
Another
Distinctly different from the first
Took another route to town.
Other
Different from that or those implied or specified
Any other person would tell the truth.
Another
Some other
Put it off to another day.
Other
Of a different character or quality
"a strange, other dimension ... where his powers seemed to fail" (Lance Morrow).
Another
One more/further, in addition to a former number; a second or additional one, similar in likeness or in effect.
Yes, I'd like another slice of cake, thanks.
Other
Of a different time or era either future or past
Other centuries.
Other generations.
Another
Not the same; different.
Do you know another way to do this job?
Other
Additional; extra
I have no other shoes.
Another
Any or some; any different person, indefinitely; anyone else; someone else.
He has never known another like her.
Other
Opposite or contrary; reverse
The other side.
Another
An additional one of the same kind.
This napkin fell to the floor, could you please bring me another?
There is one sterling and here is another
Other
Alternate; second
Every other day.
Another
One that is different from the current one.
I saw one movie, but I think I will see another.
Other
Of the recent past
Just the other day.
Another
One of a group of things of the same kind.
His interests keep shifting from one thing to another.
Other
The remaining one of two or more
One took a taxi, and the other walked home.
Another
One more, in addition to a former number; a second or additional one, similar in likeness or in effect.
Another yet! - a seventh! I 'll see no more.
Would serve to scale another Hero's tower.
Other
Others The remaining ones of several
After her departure the others resumed the discussion.
Another
Not the same; different.
He winks, and turns his lips another way.
Other
A different person or thing
One hurricane after the other.
Another
Any or some; any different person, indefinitely; any one else; some one else.
Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth.
While I am coming, another steppeth down before me.
Other
An additional person or thing
How many others will come later?.
Another
Distinctly separate from the first;
That's another (or different) issue altogether
Other
Often Other A person or thing considered to represent or epitomize difference or an outgroup. Used with the.
Another
One more or an added;
Another chance
Another cup of coffee
An additional piece of pie
Other
In another way; otherwise; differently
The car performed other than perfectly.
Another
Any of various alternatives; some other;
Put it off to another (or some other) day
Other
See other (determiner) below.
Other
Second.
I get paid every other week.
Other
Alien.
Other
Different.
Other
(obsolete) Left, as opposed to right.
Other
An other, another (person, etc), more often rendered as another.
I'm afraid little Robbie does not always play well with others.
Other
The other one; the second of two.
One boat is not better than the other.
Why not tell one or other of your parents?
Other
Not the one or ones previously referred to.
Other people would do it differently.
Other
(obsolete) Otherwise.
Other
(transitive) To regard, label, or treat as an "other", as not part of the same group; to view as different and alien.
Other
(transitive) To treat as different or separate; segregate; ostracise.
Other
Either; - used with other or or for its correlative (as either . . . or are now used).
Other of chalk, other of glass.
Other
Different from that which, or the one who, has been specified; not the same; not identical; additional; second of two.
Each of them made other for to win.
Whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Other
Not this, but the contrary; opposite; as, the other side of a river.
Other
Alternate; second; - used esp. in connection with every; as, every other day, that is, each alternate day, every second day.
Other
Left, as opposed to right.
A distaff in her other hand she had.
Bind my hair up: as 't was yesterday?No, nor t' other day.
Other
Otherwise.
Other
Not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied;
Today isn't any other day
The construction of highways and other public works
He asked for other employment
Any other person would tell the truth
His other books are still in storage
Then we looked at the other house
Hearing was good in his other ear
The other sex
She lived on the other side of the street from me
Went in the other direction
Other
Further or added;
Called for additional troops
Need extra help
An extra pair of shoes
I have no other shoes
There are other possibilities
Other
Recently past;
The other evening
Other
Of the distant past;
The early inhabitants of Europe
Former generations
In other times
Other
Very unusual; different in character or quality from the normal or expected;
A strange, other dimension...where his powers seemed to fail
Other
Indicating those distinct from the one first mentioned.
I like this dress, but the other colors are nice too.
FAQs
Can "Another" be used for plural items?
Typically, "Another" suggests a singular item, but context might imply more.
Is "Another" always singular?
Primarily, but context like "another two days" can suggest plurality.
Does "Other" always indicate difference?
"Other" usually indicates something different from the first mentioned.
How is "Other" used with plural nouns?
It becomes "Others" or "Other" before nouns, e.g., "Other people" or "The others."
Can "Another" imply a similar kind?
Yes, it often refers to something of a similar type or kind.
Can "Another" mean "different"?
Yes, e.g., "That's another topic entirely."
How does "Another" relate to time?
It can imply additional time, like "Wait another minute."
How do you differentiate "The other" from "Another"?
"The other" refers to the remaining one(s) in a set, while "Another" suggests an additional one.
Does "Another" imply repetition?
Often, as in doing something "another time."
Can "Other" be used as a pronoun?
Yes, as in "Some stayed, others left."
How is "Other" used in expressions?
Phrases like "Every other day" mean "every alternate day."
Can "Another" be synonymous with "More"?
In some contexts, like wanting "another slice" or "more slices."
When is "Another" used in place of "A different"?
In contexts like "That's another matter," implying "a different matter."
What's the plural form of "Other"?
"Others" when used as a pronoun; otherwise, "Other" can modify plural nouns.
Does "Another" always refer to identical items?
Not always, but it often implies something of a similar nature.
What does "Other than" mean?
It implies "except for" or "besides."
Can "Other" refer to the opposite?
Yes, as in "the other side" or "the other end."
When does "Other" indicate exclusivity?
In phrases like "No other option," implying exclusiveness.
How does "Other" relate to distinction?
It can highlight an alternative or distinction from a reference point.
Can "Another" suggest replacement?
Yes, e.g., "I need another pen," implying the first might be faulty.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
