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difference

/ˈdɪf.rəns/
noun★Beginner— the state of being unlike or distinct
general

the quality or condition of being unlike or distinct

The difference between the two versions is subtle but important.

This shows how 'difference' is used to describe a subtle contrast.

💡

Often used with 'between' to compare two things or with 'in' to describe a specific aspect.

Collocations

make a differenceto have an impact or effectdifference of opiniona disagreement about somethingdifference in agethe number of years between two people or things

Synonyms

distinctioncontrastvariationdivergence

Antonyms

similaritysamenessuniformity

Related Phrases

make a differencephrase
to have an impact or effect
difference of opinionphrase
a disagreement about something
difference in agephrase
the number of years between two people or things

💡Pro Tip

Countable vs. Uncountable

'Difference' can be both countable and uncountable. Use 'a difference' or 'the difference' for uncountable, and 'differences' for countable.

⚡Gold Rule

Common Collocations

'Difference' is often used with 'between', 'in', and 'of'. For example, 'the difference between them', 'a difference in opinion', or 'a difference of opinion'.

📖Word Origin

From Old French 'differance' (13th century), from Latin 'differentia' (difference), from 'differens' (differing), from 'differre' (to differ).

📝Usage Notes

Can be used as a countable noun (e.g., 'There are several differences') or an uncountable noun (e.g., 'There is a difference').

Word Breakdown

differ
to be unlike or distinct
root
+
-ence
the state or condition of
suffix
English Dictionary

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