what difference will it make

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'what difference will it make' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to ask what impact or consequence an action will have. For example: "What difference will it make if we switch to organic food?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

What difference will it make?

The Guardian - Opinion

But what difference will it make?

The Guardian

But what difference will it make to Darfur, a remote stretch in Africa's biggest country?

The Economist

So what difference will it make to the rest of the world?

The Guardian

What difference will it make if we kill all the coca crops in Colombia?

The New York Times

Disaster predictions will become more accurate, but what difference will it make?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Another might be: what difference will it all make?

BBC

What on earth difference will it make in the Potteries if Van Gaal stays or goes?

The Guardian - Sport

Now that she is certain of his death, she says: "What kind of difference will it make?

The Guardian

Amongst less politically-minded friends the most common refrain is "what's the point/what difference will it make".

The Guardian

But watching it is a strange experience: what difference will it actually make, and to whom?

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "what difference will it make", ensure the context clearly defines what 'it' refers to, to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "what difference will it make" without a clear antecedent for 'it'. Ensure the reader understands the specific action, decision, or situation being questioned to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what difference will it make" functions as an interrogative phrase, specifically a rhetorical question. It challenges the perceived value or impact of a particular action, decision, or situation. Ludwig provides several examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what difference will it make" is a common interrogative phrase used to question the impact or significance of an action or decision. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its presence across various contexts, from news and media to academic and scientific discussions. While versatile, it often implies skepticism and requires careful consideration of the context to avoid sounding dismissive. Alternatives such as "what impact will it have" and "how will it change things" can offer a more neutral or direct inquiry. By understanding its nuances and potential implications, writers can effectively use this phrase to convey their intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

What impact will it have?

Focuses more directly on the effect or influence, using 'impact' instead of 'difference'.

What effect will it produce?

Emphasizes the outcome or result of something, using 'effect' and 'produce'.

What consequences will arise?

Highlights the potential repercussions or results, using 'consequences' and 'arise'.

How will it change things?

Focuses on the transformation or alteration that something will bring about.

What will be the result?

Directly asks about the outcome or conclusion of a situation.

What is the significance of this?

Questions the importance or meaning of something, rather than its direct impact.

Why does it matter?

Asks about the relevance or importance of something, implying a need for justification.

What is the point?

Questions the purpose or value of something, suggesting a lack of clear benefit.

How does it help?

Specifically inquires about the benefits or advantages that something provides.

What are the advantages?

Asks directly about the positive aspects or benefits of something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "what difference will it make"?

You can use alternatives like "what impact will it have", "how will it change things", or "why does it matter" depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "what difference will it make"?

While grammatically correct, "what difference will it make" can sometimes sound dismissive or cynical. Consider your audience and the overall tone you want to convey.

What does "what difference will it make" imply?

It typically implies a skepticism or doubt about the potential positive outcome or significance of a proposed action or change.

How to use "what difference will it make" in a sentence?

For example: "The policy changes are minimal; "what difference will it make" to the average citizen?"