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

“Down ballot, if you come in, especially for primaries, you can really make a difference. You know, not all Democrats are the same,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

But the latest order emphasising the importance of clear handwriting came recently from the Punjab and Haryana High Court which said that "legible medical prescription is a fundamental right" as it can make a difference between life and death.

From BBC

"We have ideas and the drive to make a difference. We just need support to show our potential," she says as she and her colleagues head outside the factory for their lunch break.

From BBC

A father with an incurable brain tumour has donated his tears to a pioneering study that could revolutionise how brain cancers are detected because he wants to "make a difference".

From BBC

"Our legacy for our children and hopefully their children is really important to us and I want them to know that we at least try to make a difference," she says.

From BBC

Related Words

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