cultural difference — variation between cultures
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
A way in which the customs, beliefs, or behaviors of one group of people are not the same as those of another group.
Say it like a native
Textbook There exist notable divergences between the two cultures.
Native There are some cultural differences.
'Notable divergences' is academic; 'cultural differences' is the everyday phrase.
Pattern: cultural difference (between A and B) | cultural differences (plural)
In use
- There are many cultural differences between Japan and the United States, such as how people greet each other.society
- In my opinion, understanding cultural differences is important when working in an international company because it helps avoid misunderstandings.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ There are many cultural difference.
✓ There are many cultural differences.
Plural — 'differences'.
Common collocations
cultural difference— between, subtle, respect, huge
Don't confuse it
Not the same as 'culture shock,' which is the feeling of surprise or confusion when experiencing a new culture.