make all the difference

phrase

: to be very important : to matter most or very much
The size of the engine can make all the difference.
It may not matter to you, but it makes all the difference in the world to me.

Examples of make all the difference in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For a young designer, a co-sign of this caliber can make all the difference, offering a way through an industry difficult to break into. — Daniel Rodgers, Vogue, 4 Nov. 2026 Fortunately, a few smart travel accessories can make all the difference in fitting more and guaranteeing your items are secure. — Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 25 Oct. 2026 In life, as with cooking, timing can make all the difference. — Susan Degrane, Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026 During exertion tests in hot environments, co-founder Roland Washington says people wearing the device have been able to maintain core temperatures of up to 2°F lower than those without, which can make all the difference. — Hannah Singleton, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for make all the difference

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Make all the difference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/make%20all%20the%20difference. Accessed 13 Nov. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!