ENGLISH
REFERENCE

world of difference

idiom
Meaning

A great or insurmountable difference.


Origin

First attested in the early 17th century.

Examples
SIMPLE

A new coat makes a world of difference.

CONTEXTUAL

Adding a few plants to the office makes a world of difference in how the room feels.

COMPLEX

The subtle change in leadership made a world of difference, transforming the struggling department into a highly efficient and motivated team within just a few months.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all over the world

    throughout the world, everywhere, worldwide, globally.

  2. 02

    come into the world

    To be born.

  3. 03

    coming into the world

    The act of being born; a birth.

  4. 04

    dead to the world

    Sound asleep.

  5. 05

    edge of the world

    A very remote place.

  6. 06

    end of the world

    Any change that seems catastrophic or devastating.

  7. 07

    for all the world to see

    in plain view; clearly visible

  8. 08

    have the world by the tail

    To possess great influence and opportunity.

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