To a degree vs. "to an extent"?

Question

Is there a measurable difference in meaning between the phrases "to a degree" and "to an extent" (or "to some degree" and "to some extent")?Examples: * To [some degree / some extent] that is a better solution. * To [a degree / an extent], she is correct.Just a matter of a style, or are there different connotations?

Answer 1

That's an interesting question. It depends on the function of the sentence. If all you need is light, the color of the candle does not matter. But in an Advent wreath you want three purple and one pink.

To the extent that seafood was available to my Capuchin monkey, Harry Fitzsimmian, he preferred it over sugar cane. This is more precise than using the word "degree" since "extent" in this use carries the impression of an area or an environment.

In the other direction, you would say that a degree of caution should be exercised, and you would not say that an extent of caution should be exercised.

In a more generalized context, the phrases are indistinguishable.