make a substantial difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a substantial difference" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it when discussing something that changes the outcome significantly, for example: "This new policy will make a substantial difference to the number of people affected by homelessness in the city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Their decisions make a substantial difference in the art's value.

The New York Times

The development "will make a substantial difference to the shortfall in London," he added.

The Guardian - Business

Choosing the right defense attorney can make a substantial difference in the result of your case.

Cornell University

Instead, they have 168 unbound delegates, likely too few to make a substantial difference.

University of California, Berkeley

"We thought that it would make a substantial difference in their willingness," the senior official said.

The New York Times

It could make a substantial difference to some middle-class families.

The Washington Post

There were clear ways to help, finite amounts of aid that would make a substantial difference.

The Guardian

"It's too early to tell whether these changes will make a substantial difference".

The New York Times

There is no benefit in 'salami-slicing' and spreading the funds too thinly to make a substantial difference to anyone.

The Guardian

Tinsley is also wary about believing that the EBacc will make a substantial difference to language learning.

The Guardian

A few large trees can make a substantial difference, and in denser vegetation a suggestion of a path enhanced satisfaction.

Landscape and Urban Planning

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "make a substantial difference", ensure that the context clearly indicates the area or aspect being significantly affected. Provide specific details to illustrate the extent and nature of the difference.

Common error

Avoid using "make a substantial difference" when the actual impact is minimal or uncertain. Ensure that the evidence supports the claim of a significant positive change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a substantial difference" functions as a verb phrase, typically used within a sentence to indicate that an action or change will result in a considerable and positive impact. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

26%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make a substantial difference" is a versatile and commonly used expression that conveys the idea of having a significant positive impact. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for a wide range of contexts, particularly in news media, scientific publications, and academic writing. While alternative phrases like "have a significant impact" or "contribute significantly" can be used for variety, the core meaning remains consistent. When using the phrase, it is crucial to provide context and evidence to support the claim of a notable and meaningful change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a significant impact

Focuses on the degree of influence exerted.

contribute significantly

Emphasizes the act of giving or adding to something in a meaningful way.

generate a major shift

Highlights a large-scale change or transformation.

bring about considerable change

Focuses on causing a notable alteration or modification.

exert a powerful influence

Stresses the strength and effectiveness of the impact.

leave a considerable mark

Implies a lasting and noticeable effect.

effectuate meaningful progress

Highlights the achievement of real and important advancement.

play a pivotal role

Emphasizes the crucial importance of the contribution.

be instrumental in

Stresses the key role in achieving a desired outcome.

reshape fundamentally

Indicates a deep and transformative change to the base structure.

FAQs

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

You can use "make a substantial difference" to describe actions or changes that have a significant positive impact, for example: "Investing in education can "make a substantial difference" in a child's life".

What are some alternatives to "make a substantial difference"?

Some alternatives include "have a significant impact", "contribute significantly", or "play a pivotal role" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "make a substantial difference to" or "make a substantial difference in"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "make a substantial difference to" is typically used when referring to people or organizations, while "make a substantial difference in" is used when referring to a situation or area. For example: "It will "make a substantial difference" to the lives of the refugees" versus "It will "make a substantial difference" in the fight against poverty".

What's the difference between "make a substantial difference" and "make a significant difference"?

While both convey a similar meaning, "make a substantial difference" suggests a more considerable or noticeable impact than "make a significant difference". The choice depends on the desired emphasis.