make a difference
Idioms-
Distinguish or discriminate. This phrase appears in the Bible (Leviticus 11:47): “To make a difference between the unclean and the clean.” [Late 1500s]
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Also, make the difference . Cause a change in effect, change the nature of something, as in His score on this test will make the difference between passing and failing , or These curtains sure make a difference in the lighting .
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Be important, matter, as in Her volunteer work made a difference in many lives . The antonym of this usage is make no difference , as in It makes no difference to me if we go immediately or in an hour . This usage appeared long ago in slightly different versions. Miles Coverdale's translation of the Bible of 1535 had it is no difference , and the converse, it makes great difference , was first recorded about 1470.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It can make a difference for a house with two or more bedrooms.
From MarketWatch
“The features and functions of different units vary tremendously. A system that only produces heat and doesn’t include air conditioning will perform differently from a heat pump, for example, that does both. Usage patterns will affect how long a system might last. Heavy use will increase wear and tear and decrease a unit’s lifespan. How well they are maintained can also make a difference that is measured in decades of more useful life. It is often worth paying more up front for a higher-quality unit.”
From MarketWatch
"Know your numbers, listen to your body and be an advocate for your health. Additionally, support girls and women in your life to do the same. We can make a difference -- we can be the difference."
From Science Daily
Will drivers still make a difference in F1 in 2026?
From BBC
Yes, complaints should be investigated, but something tells me in the case of Garrett, whenever his situation is finalized, he’s going to get his job back if he wants it and whether the district apologizes or not, he’s going to leave with his head held high knowing he did his best every day to make a difference in the lives of students, whether they liked him or not.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
