difference

[ˈdɪf(ə)rəns]

difference Definition

• 1. a point or way in which people or things are dissimilar
• 2. the result of subtracting one number from another

Using difference: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "difference" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  There is a big difference between the two products.

• Example

  Can you tell me the difference between these two shirts?

• Example

  The difference in their ages is only two years.

• Example

  What's the difference between a crocodile and an alligator?

difference Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for difference

• discrepancy
• variation
• divergence
• distinction
• disparity

Antonyms for difference

• similarity
• sameness
• equality

Idioms Using difference

• make no difference

  have no effect or significance

  Example

  Whether I go or not will make no difference to the outcome.

• what's the difference?

  used to express indifference or a lack of preference between two options

  Example

  A: Do you want to watch a movie or play a game? B: What's the difference? I don't mind either way.

• splitting hairs

  arguing over small or unimportant differences

  Example

  Stop splitting hairs and focus on the main issue.

Phrases with difference

• make a difference

  have a significant effect on something

  Example

  Your support can make a difference in the lives of many people.

• split the difference

  reach a compromise by agreeing to give up part of what each party wants

  Example

  They couldn't agree on the price, so they decided to split the difference and settle for something in between.

• know the difference between right and wrong

  be able to distinguish between good and bad behavior

  Example

  It's important to teach children to know the difference between right and wrong.

Origins of difference

from Old French 'difference', from Latin 'differentia', from 'different-,' differing, from the verb 'differre'

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Summary: difference in Brief

The term 'difference' [ˈdɪf(ə)rəns] refers to dissimilarities between people or things, or the result of subtracting one number from another. It is used in phrases like 'make a difference,' meaning to have a significant effect, and idioms like 'what's the difference?' indicating indifference. 'Difference' also extends into phrases like 'split the difference,' denoting a compromise, and 'know the difference between right and wrong,' referring to moral judgment.