Dictionary
1difference
noun dif·fer·ence \ˈdi-fərn(t)s, ˈdi-f(ə-)rən(t)s\
: the quality that makes one person or thing unlike another
: something that people do not agree about : a disagreement in opinion
: the degree or amount by which things differ
Full Definition of DIFFERENCE
1
a : the quality or state of being different <the difference between right and wrong> b : an instance of differing in nature, form, or quality <noted the differences in color and texture> c archaic : a characteristic that distinguishes one from another or from the average d : the element or factor that separates or distinguishes contrasting situations
2
: distinction or discrimination in preference <timing is often the difference between success and failure>
3
a : disagreement in opinion : dissension b : an instance or cause of disagreement <unable to settle their differences>
4
5
: a significant change in or effect on a situation <it makes no difference to me>
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First Known Use of DIFFERENCE
14th century
Related to DIFFERENCE
2difference
verb
differenceddifferenc·ing
Definition of DIFFERENCE
transitive verb
First Known Use of DIFFERENCE
1576
Related to DIFFERENCE
- Synonyms
- distinguish, differentiate, discern, discriminate, secern, separate
DIFFERENCE[1] Defined for Kids
difference
noun dif·fer·ence \ˈdi-fə-rens, ˈdi-frəns\
Definition of DIFFERENCE for Kids
1
: what makes two or more persons or things not the same <I can't see any difference between the two designs.>
2
: a disagreement about something <They've always had their differences.>
3
: the number that is left after subtracting one number from another <The difference between six and four is two.>
4
: an important change <A tutor has made a difference in his grades.>
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