make a difference
idiom
1
: to cause a change : to be important in some way
Cost can make a difference in deciding on a college.
Your help made a big difference.
It may not matter to you, but it makes a world of difference to me.
2
: to do something that is important : to do something that helps people or makes the world a better place
She says that she got into politics because she wanted to make a difference.
Examples of make a difference in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The man forged at UConn has long since become a dignitary himself, determined to make a difference on Africa’s East Coast.
—
Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 15 Feb. 2026
Many arborists are happy to come out for a consultation anytime since early intervention can make a difference.
—Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 15 Feb. 2026
Executive orders from Washington can make a difference.
—Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 13 Feb. 2026
Sprockett has enough funding to support one trainee, and having your own money can make a difference when faculty pick which students to accept.
—Jonathan Wosen, STAT, 11 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for make a difference
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Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 15 Feb. 2026
Many arborists are happy to come out for a consultation anytime since early intervention can make a difference.
—Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 15 Feb. 2026
Executive orders from Washington can make a difference.
—Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 13 Feb. 2026
Sprockett has enough funding to support one trainee, and having your own money can make a difference when faculty pick which students to accept.
—Jonathan Wosen, STAT, 11 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for make a difference
Cite this Entry
“Make a difference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/make%20a%20difference. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.
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