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

“That changed my whole perspective on how to make a difference in this whole place,” Kasamis said.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

"Anything that brings a slight advantage will make a difference, whether that's someone donating tape, our shirts being sponsored, parents dropping off for fixtures," he added.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

But it was also true that more time wouldn’t make a difference.

From "Millionaires for the Month" by Stacey McAnulty

Related Words

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