make a difference
To carry out an action, the result of which is a significant change, or an altered circumstance.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Small changes can make a big difference.”
“Volunteering at the local shelter is a great way to make a difference in your community.”
“By dedicating her career to environmental policy, she hoped to make a difference that would benefit future generations long after she retired.”
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absence makes the heart grow fonder
One feels more love or affection for those one loves when parted from them.
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cannot make it
Cannot reach satisfactory or expected standards or do something competently; describes someone in a hopeless situation.
- 03
doctors make the worst patients
It is difficult to advise people on subjects that they are experts on.
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enough to make a cat laugh
Very outlandish or outrageous.
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enough to make the angels weep
Something so distressing that it causes one to lose hope and faith.
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fine feathers make fine birds
Something that appears beautiful or good is by definition beautiful or good.
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have it made
To have accomplished all there is to do; to have no further work or difficulty.
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it takes all kinds to make a world
Diversity is essential: the world would be incomplete if everyone were alike; an expression of surprise at a person or people's eccentricity.
Last updated August 10, 2026