difference
n.-
1 an effect or change (n.) B1 Intermediatea noticeable effect or improvement in a situation.
a significant effect, influence, or change in a state of affairs.
ExampleThe new medicine made a big difference to her health.
ExampleThe charitable donation made a substantial difference to the community, allowing the local library to expand its digital collection.
Usagecommonly used in the phrase 'make a difference'.
-
2 a disagreement (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatea disagreement or argument between people.
a disagreement or dispute regarding opinion or policy.
ExampleThe two friends decided to settle their differences and be kind again.
ExampleDespite their political differences, the two leaders managed to reach a compromise on the environmental treaty.
Usageoften used in the plural 'differences'.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
-
3 math result (n.) B1 Intermediate Maththe amount that remains after you subtract one number from another.
the remainder or result obtained by subtracting one quantity from another.
ExampleThe difference between ten and four is six.
ExampleThe statistical analysis focused on the significant difference between the control group and the experimental group results.
From Middle English difference, from Old French difference, from Latin differentia (“difference”), from differēns (“different”), present participle of differre. Doublet of differentia. Morphologically differ + -ence.
- Noundiff
- Noundifference
- 01
make a difference
To carry out an action, the result of which is a significant change, or an altered circumstance.
- 02
make all the difference
To be a crucial or deciding factor; to have a very significant effect (often a positive one).
- 03
same difference
A distinction which makes no difference; a distinction which does not matter.