a mammoth difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a mammoth difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a significant or substantial difference between two things. Example: "There is a mammoth difference in the quality of service between the two hotels."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

While this is spot on with the $1.2-$1.2-$1.3 billionetag pricetag rumored to be shoPalmg around as of late, it's still a mammoth difference from wast Palm was trumoredatojust months ago.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The mammoth difference in Bill and Eric's size continues to be funny, but there was an important piece of information slipped in at the end – Bill criticised Eric for making Sookie drink his blood, but Eric pointed out that Bill had done the exact same thing on the first night he met her.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

— can make a difference in a mammoth organization like the Roman Catholic Church that is founded on hierarchical policies and practices.

The New York Times

It is a mammoth undertaking.

The Economist

It is a mammoth project.

The Economist

So it's been a mammoth task".

Independent

"It was a mammoth task," Basheer said.

The New Yorker

"It was a mammoth task," Kataria recalled.

The New Yorker

"A mammoth, for example?" said my girlfriend.

The New Yorker

It is carved from a mammoth tusk.

The Economist

OK – but why a mammoth?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a mammoth difference" when you want to strongly emphasize the size or impact of a difference between two things. It conveys a sense of something being extraordinarily large or significant.

Common error

While "a mammoth difference" is acceptable, it can sound overly dramatic in casual conversation. Consider using alternatives like "a big difference" or "a significant difference" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mammoth difference" functions as a descriptor, specifically as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "difference". It serves to emphasize the scale or degree of the difference being described. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a mammoth difference" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize a particularly large or significant difference. Ludwig confirms its correctness and offers contexts primarily in news and media. While effective for stressing the scale of a disparity, it might be too emphatic for casual settings, where alternatives like "a big difference" may be more appropriate. The phrase carries a neutral to slightly formal tone and is best reserved for situations where highlighting the magnitude of the difference is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a huge distinction

Replaces "mammoth" with "huge", indicating a large but possibly less overwhelming difference.

a major contrast

A simpler and more direct way of expressing a notable difference.

a substantial variation

Substitutes "mammoth difference" with a more formal expression.

a profound distinction

Emphasizes the depth and importance of the difference.

a considerable disparity

Offers a more technical and formal way to describe the difference.

an enormous gap

Similar to "vast gulf", but less metaphorical.

a significant divergence

Emphasizes the act of moving in different directions or differing opinions.

a radical difference

Highlights the fundamental or revolutionary nature of the difference.

a vast gulf

Uses metaphorical language to highlight the great distance or separation.

a world of difference

Emphasizes the magnitude of the difference, suggesting a complete contrast.

FAQs

What does "a mammoth difference" mean?

The phrase "a mammoth difference" is used to describe a difference that is extremely large, significant, or impactful. It emphasizes the magnitude of the disparity between two things.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a mammoth difference"?

It's appropriate to use "a mammoth difference" when you want to strongly emphasize that the difference is substantial and notable. It is suitable for formal or semi-formal contexts where emphasizing the scale of the difference is important.

What are some alternatives to "a mammoth difference"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a huge distinction", "a significant divergence", or "a substantial variation". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a mammoth difference" more emphatic than "a big difference"?

Yes, "a mammoth difference" is generally more emphatic than "a big difference". The word "mammoth" implies something of enormous size and impact, making the difference seem more pronounced.