make a difference

USAGE SUMMARY

"make a difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as an idiom meaning to have a positive impact on something. Example Sentence: His volunteer work in the local community really made a difference.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Did this make a difference?

The New York Times

"It can make a difference".

The New York Times

Did that make a difference?

The New Yorker

What does make a difference?

The New York Times

It wouldn't make a difference.

The New Yorker

Will it make a difference?

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Keep making a difference.

The New Yorker

It made a difference".

The New York Times - Sports

That makes a difference".

The New York Times - Sports

Seeding makes a difference".

The New York Times

She made a difference.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a difference" to emphasize the positive impact of an action or contribution. For example: Volunteering your time can really "make a difference" in the lives of others.

Common error

Avoid using "make a difference" when the impact is minimal or insignificant. For instance, saying that choosing between two almost identical products "makes a difference" is an exaggeration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a difference" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the action of having a significant and positive effect. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a commonly used idiom. This is evident in many examples where it describes actions that alter circumstances for the better.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

13%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make a difference" is a commonly used idiom that signifies having a positive impact. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it also appears in academic, wiki, formal and business settings. The phrase encourages action and highlights the potential for positive change. When using "make a difference", ensure that the impact is genuine and avoid overstating its significance. Consider alternatives like "have an impact" or "bring about change" depending on the context. By understanding the nuances of this phrase, you can effectively communicate the importance of contributing to a better world.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have an impact

Focuses on the effect or influence created, rather than the act of creating it.

exert influence

Emphasizes the power or control exerted to produce a change.

bring about change

Highlights the act of causing a transformation or alteration.

contribute positively

Focuses on the act of giving or adding something beneficial.

leave a mark

Suggests a lasting or memorable effect.

be a game changer

Implies a significant and transformative impact.

move the needle

Indicates progress or advancement towards a goal.

have a hand in

Highlights participation or involvement in achieving something.

play a role

Suggests involvement or contribution to a larger process or outcome.

make an improvement

Emphasizes the act of enhancing or refining something.

FAQs

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

You can use "make a difference" to describe an action that has a positive impact, as in, "Volunteering at the local shelter can "make a difference" in the lives of homeless animals."

What are some alternatives to "make a difference"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "have an impact", "bring about change", or "contribute positively" instead of "make a difference".

Is it better to say "make a difference" or "have a difference"?

"Make a difference" is the correct and commonly used idiom. "Have a difference" is grammatically correct but doesn't convey the same meaning of creating a positive impact.

What's the difference between "make a difference" and "make an impact"?

While both phrases suggest influence, ""make a difference"" often implies a positive change, whereas "make an impact" is more neutral and can refer to any significant effect, positive or negative.