make a difference

idiom

1

: to cause a change : to be important in some way

Cost can make a difference in deciding on a college.

Your help made a big difference.

It may not matter to you, but it makes a world of difference to me.

2

: to do something that is important : to do something that helps people or makes the world a better place

She says that she got into politics because she wanted to make a difference.

Examples of make a difference in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Clark’s handwritten appeal and his victory giving him ownership of the house didn’t make a difference. —Ben Wieder, Miami Herald, 26 Jan. 2025

Because avoiding excess heat and air exposure is key to keeping butter fresh, the temperature in your kitchen and how well the butter is wrapped will make a difference. —Annie Peterson, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Jan. 2025

In reality, an individual or organization can make a difference even with a relatively simple and spontaneous act of kindness. —Kate Vitasek, Forbes, 24 Jan. 2025

As a consumer, being aware of these challenges and extending grace and patience can make a difference. —Lyric Christian, Essence, 24 Jan. 2025