different from is a common gramatical error made nearly every time the word 'different' is used the oxford dictionary of english usage states slightly paraphrased different is always followed by to never from or than the use of different from is a common grammatical error the increasing use of the awkward form different than is probably due to confusion with other than it then goes on about the incorrect use of the adjectival form where the adverb is required the form 'different to' was drummed into me at school the americans may well use the form 'different from' as a matter or routine since they always take the easy approach but as the article is about a uk invention british english is the required version for the article pointing to internet sites that claim otherwise is not going to impress because they are clearly making the common error but it is difficult to weed out those that are thinking in american english the oxford university dictionaries are generally regarded as the authoritative source for all things concerning the english language