Nother vs. Another — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 8, 2024
Nother is an informal, nonstandard term often used conversationally as a part of the phrase "a whole nother," implying something separate or additional. Another, however, is the standard term used to refer to an additional item, instance, or alternative.
Difference Between Nother and Another
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Key Differences
Nother is often used colloquially in the expression "a whole nother," meaning "a completely different thing." Another is the standard term meaning "one more" or "an additional."
Nother commonly appears in spoken English as part of casual speech, often as a way to emphasize separation or difference. Another, on the other hand, is formally recognized in written and spoken language to refer to an extra unit or option.
Nother is usually a linguistic blend from splitting "another" into "a" and "nother," emphasizing separateness. Another maintains its original meaning of indicating an additional item or alternative without splitting.
Nother lacks recognition in standard English grammar, whereas another is widely used in both formal and informal contexts.
Comparison Chart
Usage
Informal, colloquial phrase
Standard English term
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Meaning
Separate or different thing
An additional instance
Standardization
Not standard
Widely recognized
Context
Casual spoken English
Both spoken and written English
Origin
Linguistic blend from "another"
Middle English, from Old English
Compare with Definitions
Nother
Nonstandard, used colloquially for "a whole nother."
That's a whole nother issue to discuss.
Another
One more or an additional.
Could I have another slice of pizza?
Nother
Frequently heard in casual spoken English.
Convincing him will be a whole nother story.
Another
Refers to a different or alternative option.
He decided to take another route.
Nother
Informal, meaning something separate or different.
Finding a venue is a whole nother challenge.
Another
Indicates an extra unit or instance.
I think I'll read another chapter before bed.
Nother
Emphasizes a distinct separation or additional matter.
Organizing the event is a whole nother undertaking.
Another
Originating from Old English "an oðer" (an other).
There's another way to solve this problem.
Nother
Combination of "a" and a reinterpreted "nother."
You need a whole nother approach to this project.
Another
Describes something distinct yet similar.
We'll discuss it another time.
Nother
Other. Usually used in the phrase a whole nother, as in the sentence That's a whole nother story.
Another
One more; an additional
Had another cup of coffee.
Nother
Neither.
Another
Distinctly different from the first
Took another route to town.
Nother
(obsolete) Another.
Another
Some other
Put it off to another day.
Nother
Neither.
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.
Nother
Different, other.
Another
Not the same; different.
Do you know another way to do this job?
Nother
Neither; nor.
Another
Any or some; any different person, indefinitely; anyone else; someone else.
He has never known another like her.
Nother
Other; - variant spelling used mostly in the phrase a whole nother (i. e., a completely different), as though formed by splitting the word "another".
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
Another
One that is different from the current one.
I saw one movie, but I think I will see another.
Another
One of a group of things of the same kind.
His interests keep shifting from one thing to another.
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.
Another
Not the same; different.
He winks, and turns his lips another way.
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.
Another
Distinctly separate from the first;
That's another (or different) issue altogether
Another
One more or an added;
Another chance
Another cup of coffee
An additional piece of pie
Another
Any of various alternatives; some other;
Put it off to another (or some other) day
Common Curiosities
What does nother mean?
Nother is a colloquial, nonstandard term used to imply a separate or additional issue.
Can another be used interchangeably with nother?
No, another is standard, while nother is nonstandard and primarily used informally.
Is another commonly used in writing?
Yes, another is widely accepted in both written and spoken English.
Is nother grammatically correct?
Nother is not considered standard English but is commonly understood in spoken contexts.
What does another mean?
Another is the standard term meaning "one more" or "an additional."
How is nother used in speech?
Nother often appears in informal phrases like "a whole nother."
Can another indicate both similarity and difference?
Yes, another can imply both something similar or an alternative option.
Does nother always require "whole" before it?
Not necessarily, but it's most often heard in the phrase "a whole nother."
Is nother recognized in dictionaries?
Some dictionaries may mention nother as a colloquial variation but label it as nonstandard.
Does nother have any regional usage?
Nother is not specific to any region but is generally used in informal American English.
Is another formal or informal?
Another is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Where did the term nother originate?
Nother likely originated from splitting "another" into "a" and "nother."
Can another refer to a person?
Yes, another can refer to a different person or individual.
Is "whole nother" grammatically correct?
It's not standard English grammar but is accepted colloquially.
Is "whole nother" commonly understood?
Yes, despite its informal status, it's commonly understood in English conversations.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
