makes a lot of difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "makes a lot of difference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that there is a big change or impact, usually a positive one. For example, "Making sure to get enough sleep makes a lot of difference in how productive you can be during the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

"That really makes a lot of difference".

The New York Times

But, she says, "When you have a physical presence it makes a lot of difference.

Independent

But it makes a lot of difference when you get into big numbers".

The New York Times

If we are involved in that it makes a lot of difference.

The Guardian

PAULSEN -- I don't think the election makes a lot of difference.

The New York Times

"I personally feel that my foreign-sounding name makes a lot of difference.

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

He's made a lot of difference".

The New York Times - Sports

"It does make a lot of difference".

The New York Times

One person can really make a lot of difference.

The New York Times

It wouldn't make a lot of difference.

The Guardian - Opinion

It doesn't really make a lot of difference.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "makes a lot of difference" to emphasize the positive impact of a specific action or element. For stronger impact, follow the phrase with a 'because' clause to explain why the difference is significant.

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid using "makes a lot of difference" excessively in formal writing. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives such as "has a significant impact" or "proves to be substantially effective" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "makes a lot of difference" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating that a particular action, condition, or factor significantly influences an outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "makes a lot of difference" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something has a significant impact. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business. While the phrase is generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like ""has a significant impact"" in highly formal settings. To maximize the impact, always follow the phrase with context to showcase the positive change. Overall, this phrase is a valuable tool for emphasizing importance and influence in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has a significant impact

This alternative emphasizes the importance of the effect caused.

is highly influential

This highlights the power to affect something.

carries considerable weight

This suggests that something is important and taken seriously.

proves to be substantially effective

Focuses on the proven positive outcome and impact of something.

effects a major change

This focuses on the large transformation that occurs because of something.

is of great consequence

Emphasizes the importance of the outcome or result.

bears great importance

Highlights that something is not to be ignored and has value.

is a game changer

This presents something as revolutionary or groundbreaking.

has a profound effect

This alternative stresses the depth and intensity of the influence.

contributes substantially

Highlights the significant role something plays in achieving a result.

FAQs

What does "makes a lot of difference" mean?

It means something has a significant or noticeable effect or impact. It indicates that something is important and influences the outcome in a substantial way.

How can I use "makes a lot of difference" in a sentence?

You can use it to emphasize the positive impact of an action or decision. For example: "Investing in employee training "has a significant impact" on productivity."

What can I say instead of "makes a lot of difference"?

You can use alternatives like ""has a significant impact"", "is highly influential", or "carries considerable weight" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "makes a big difference" or "makes a lot of difference"?

Both are acceptable, but "makes a lot of difference" might sound slightly more emphatic. The choice often depends on personal preference and the overall tone of your writing. "Makes a big difference" is valid.