difference

word

/ˈdɪfɝəns/, /ˈdɪfɹəns/
DIF-ruhns
/dˈɪfɹəns/
DIF-ruhns

Definition

The way in which two or more things or people are not the same; what makes them unlike each other.

Usage & Nuances

'Difference' is countable and often used with 'between' or 'in.' Common collocations: 'big difference,' 'make a difference,' 'tell the difference.' It's used both for comparing things (physical or abstract) and for talking about the effect or significance of something ("It makes a difference").

Example Sentences

There is a big difference between cats and dogs.

basic

Can you tell the difference between these two photos?

basic

A small difference in temperature can affect the experiment.

basic

I don't see any difference after using this shampoo.

natural

A little kindness can make a big difference in someone's life.

natural

We had our differences, but we worked it out.

natural