make a difference

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.

Example Sentences

And does Sunderland's cunning tactic of moving the advertising boards make a difference?

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Does it make a difference or is it just mind games?

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Does the stadium make a difference?

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“I really like just the opportunity to make a difference for myself,” Plant says about the breadth of his creative endeavors.

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That can make a difference when it comes to the actual amount of carried interest someone receives.

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Related Words

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