word choice - It might be defined different/differently?


In the following example, realtype stands for a computer data type defined by a computer. The data type might be different on different computers; ie the definition of realtype is machine-dependent.



If my [computer] code is executed on another system, realtype might be defined { different / differently / something else }.



Which of the alternative endings should I choose? Please say why, in plain English. I prefer an answer with simple rules that I can remember and easily apply.


I tried to understand an earlier question, to no avail.



Answer



The last response from the linked question is probably the best and clearest. "Differently" modifies the verb ("defined"), whereas "different" would modify the noun ("realtype"). So I'm almost certain you want "differently" because the defining is what's different.


"Differently" is an adverb, "different" is an adjective (generally).


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