they make a difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they make a difference" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to express that someone's actions or contributions have a positive impact. For example, "The volunteers work tirelessly because they make a difference in the community." Alternative expressions include "they have an impact" and "they contribute positively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They make a difference.

The New York Times

They make a difference in the lives of others.

The New York Times

Beyond that, I don't know if they make a difference.

The Guardian - Film

They make a difference to a person's career".

Independent

And they believe they make a difference by doing it well.

The New York Times

But he added: "We are waiting to see if they make a difference.

The New York Times

For all the effort and time spent by scam-baiters, not everyone is convinced that they make a difference.

The New York Times - Tech

Can they make a difference in a world where conflict and humanitarian disasters never seem to stop?

The Guardian

Jeffrey Saltzman, Sirota's chief executive, spoke last week about the motivational strategies companies consider in economically challenging times and whether they make a difference.

The New York Times

It will be fascinating to see which GP-led organisations emerge as the new system leaders and how they make a difference.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Wow, they made a difference.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In professional or academic writing, consider following the phrase with a 'by' clause to specify exactly how the impact is achieved for better clarity.

Common error

While "they make a difference" is evocative, it can be too imprecise for scientific or technical documentation. In these contexts, try more descriptive alternatives like "they alter the variable" or "they improve efficacy" to provide concrete information.

Linguistic Context

This phrase serves as an "independent clause" consisting of a plural subject and a transitive predicate. In the examples provided by Ludwig, it often acts as the conclusion of a logical argument or the justification for a specific action or program.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science & Research

15%

Social Issues & Philanthropy

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki & General

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they make a difference" is a robust and grammatically correct English expression used to denote significant positive impact. Ludwig's data confirms its high frequency across elite publications, including "The New York Times" and "The Guardian", as well as in scientific contexts like "NCBI". It is an ideal choice for writers who wish to highlight the value of collective actions or programs without relying on overly technical jargon. While common, its effectiveness remains high when supported by specific context, making it a staple of persuasive and descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they have an impact

Focuses on the measurable or observable effect rather than a generic difference.

they effect change

Uses a more formal verb to describe the active implementation of new conditions.

they bring about change

A more common phrasal verb alternative emphasizing the process of transformation.

they contribute positively

Highlights the constructive nature of the impact in a collaborative context.

they play a vital role

Emphasizes the importance of the subjects within a larger system or project.

they matter

A concise, more emotional alternative that focuses on intrinsic value or significance.

they leave a mark

A metaphorical expression suggesting a lasting or historical legacy.

they transform lives

A much stronger, more specific claim often used in humanitarian or social contexts.

they influence outcomes

More technical and clinical, focusing on the result of a specific process or trial.

they carry weight

An idiom implying that the subjects possess authority or significant influence.

FAQs

How to use "they make a difference" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe the value of a group's work, such as: "The new mentors are essential because "they make a difference" in students' lives".

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

Depending on your tone, you could use "they have an impact" for a neutral tone, or "they matter" for a more personal sentiment.

Is "they make a difference" formal enough for business?

Yes, it is widely used in corporate social responsibility reports and leadership speeches, though "they create value" is a more standard business alternative.

What is the difference between "they make a difference" and "they matter"?

"they make a difference" implies an external impact on the world or others, while "they matter" focuses on the inherent worth or importance of the subjects themselves.