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.
That will make a difference to the risk you would be taking on.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 23, 2026
While leaders with unique strengths sometimes make a difference no one else could have, Mr. Diamond says that many others often would have had similar achievements under the same circumstances.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 16, 2026
Dr Rosie Benneyworth, who gave evidence to the inquiry, also believes the report has the potential to make a difference across the NHS.
From BBC ● Sep. 12, 2026
"This government is about solving the problems that really make a difference to people's lives."
From BBC ● Sep. 6, 2026
Northeast or northwest, it didn’t really make a difference.
From "The Marrow Thieves" by Cherie Dimaline
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.
