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 such a move might not actually make a difference, experts say.

From MarketWatch

But such a move might not actually make a difference, experts say.

From MarketWatch

“He just loved people, and he loved to try to make a difference,” Fleischman said.

From Los Angeles Times

The project also works with young people to show how small actions can make a difference.

From BBC

But the patrols won’t make a difference if sea saboteurs know that international law will shield them from consequences.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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