can make a major difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can make a major difference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the significant impact or change that something can bring about in a situation. Example: "Implementing this new policy can make a major difference in employee satisfaction and productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

The United States can make a major difference in alleviating Haiti's suffering.

The New York Times

These results suggest that for a minor impost, employers can make a major difference to the lives of their employees.

The Guardian

It also shows that the structure of mortgage markets can make a major difference in how a collapse plays out.

The New York Times

According to the editor-in-chief of a prominent reformist newspaper, who requested anonymity, the culture minister can make a major difference in reinvigorating the Iranian press.

The Guardian

Lessons from the last big credit crunch, which came after Russia's financial meltdown in August 1998, show that timid action has little effect, while a quick and decisive follow-up move can make a major difference.

The New York Times

Athletes taking EPO can go 50percentt longer at that somewhat lower level of effort, which can make a major difference in an endurance event like the Tour de France or a marathon, Dr. Lundby said.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Finally, on Israel-Palestine, Mr Hounshell blames the lousy developments over the past four years on Hillary Clinton's disengagement, which I don't understand, and holds out the bold hope that Mr Kerry will "at least pretend that the Obama administration has a strategy".At the micro level, on the other hand, I think it can sometimes make a major difference who your secretary of state is.

The Economist

Avoidance of nephrotoxins, another cornerstone of the management of critically ill patients, can also make a major difference in limiting the incidence and/or progression of AKI, especially given that close to 25% of patients with AKI used herbal medications prior to their admission to the hospital.

BMC Nephrology

Companies committed to CSR attract these workers because they "can offer unparalleled opportunities to make a major difference on important social and environmental issues".

The Guardian

Any factor could make a major difference.

The New York Times - Sports

Would FreeME make a major difference?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can make a major difference" to highlight the potential positive impact of specific actions or strategies. This phrase is effective in persuasive writing and motivational speaking.

Common error

Avoid using "can make a major difference" when the potential impact is minimal or uncertain. Overusing this phrase can diminish its credibility and impact in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can make a major difference" functions as a verb phrase expressing the potential for significant impact or change. Ludwig examples confirm its use in highlighting the importance or influence of an action or element.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "can make a major difference" is a versatile expression used to emphasize the potential for significant impact across various contexts. Ludwig AI analysis, supported by numerous examples from reliable sources like The New York Times and BBC, confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. While adaptable to different registers, its usage is particularly frequent in news media, business and formal communications, and scientific discussions. When employing this phrase, prioritize clear and specific statements about the potential influence of the element in question. Overuse or exaggeration should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can significantly impact

Replaces "make a major difference" with a more direct assertion of impact.

can greatly influence

Focuses on the ability to affect or shape something substantially.

can substantially alter

Highlights the capacity to bring about considerable change.

can transform significantly

Emphasizes a transformative effect.

can considerably improve

Highlights the ability to make notable improvements.

can have a large effect

Uses "effect" instead of "difference", maintaining a broad impact.

can produce a profound change

Stresses the depth and significance of the alteration.

can exert a powerful influence

Emphasizes the strength and potency of the effect.

can play a pivotal role

Highlights the importance and centrality of the contribution.

can offer a game changer

Suggests the potential to revolutionize or decisively alter the outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "can make a major difference" in a sentence?

You can use "can make a major difference" to emphasize the significant impact or change that something can bring about in a situation. For example: "Implementing this new policy "can make a major difference" in employee satisfaction and productivity."

What can I say instead of "can make a major difference"?

You can use alternatives like "can significantly impact", "can greatly influence", or "can substantially alter" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "can make a major difference" in formal writing?

Yes, "can make a major difference" is suitable for formal writing. Ludwig AI examples include use in news media and formal business documents, showcasing its acceptability in professional contexts.

What's the difference between "can make a major difference" and "can make a minor difference"?

The difference lies in the degree of impact. "Can make a major difference" implies a substantial, significant change, while "can make a minor difference" suggests a smaller, less noticeable effect.