make a difference

Idioms  

1. Distinguish or discriminate. This phrase appears in the Bible (Leviticus 11:47): “To make a difference between the unclean and the clean.” [Late 1500s]

2. 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 .

3. 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.

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Example Sentences

But seeing the sign for Sandy June’s, seeing Native people abundant and at ease, tasting the frybread, salty and sweet, had reminded him of what it felt like to look into the future and believe his actions could make a difference.

From Literature

Many people can make a difference on the planet even with a small garden, says Smee.

From Los Angeles Times

Referring to the bosses of F1 and his potential loss from the paddock, he implied that a change of the rules would make a difference to his decision.

From BBC

I can’t make a difference that way,’ ” Cahillane said in an interview.

From The Wall Street Journal

She says she was inspired to make a difference after reading the Woman of the North report, which was released by Health Equity North in 2024.

From BBC

Related Words

• affect
• count
• imply
• involve
• mean
• signify