A1noun1K

Difference

UK /["/ˈdɪfrəns/"]/US /["/ˈdɪfrəns/"]/

Definition

the way in which two people or things are not like each other; the way in which somebody/something has changed

In simple words: What makes two things not the same.

Examples

  • There is a big difference between night and day.
  • The difference in prices made me choose the cheaper option.
  • Can you explain the difference between these two words?
  • The most important difference in the new model is its improved battery life.
  • Understanding the difference in cultures can help us communicate better.

Usage notes

Use 'difference' to highlight variations between items. It is suitable for both written and spoken contexts. Avoid using it when discussing similarities.

Grammar pattern

difference + between + two things

Memory hint

Think of 'differ'ance' — it shows how things differ.

Collocations

  • big
  • broad
  • considerable
  • make
  • mean
  • emphasize
  • be
  • lie
  • arise (from something)
  • difference among
  • difference between
  • difference from
  • a… with a difference
  • all the difference in the world
  • a great deal of difference
  • pay
  • make up
  • pocket
  • irreconcilable
  • major
  • serious
  • have
  • make up
  • patch up
  • arise
  • emerge
  • occur
  • difference as to
  • difference over
  • a difference of opinion
  • have your differences

Synonyms

  • disparity
  • distinction
  • variation
  • contrast
  • divergence

Antonyms

  • similarity
  • likeness

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'difference' with 'different' as they have different uses.
  • Using 'difference' without specifying the objects in question.
  • Incorrectly pluralizing as 'differences' when referring to one.