French word

différence

Pronunciation

IPA/difeʁɑ̃s/

Meaning

  • feminine noundifference

Example

Il y a une différence entre ces deux prix.

There is a difference between these two prices.

Illustration for différence (difference)

More examples

Cette décision peut faire la différence pour les étudiants.

This decision can make a difference for the students.

Core concept

The point at which two similar things diverge in identity, quality, or amount.

Common phrases

  • faire la différence

    make a difference

  • une grande différence

    a big difference

Similar words

écart: A measurable gap between quantities, values, or prices.
nuance: A fine shade of difference in meaning or impression.
contraste: A striking difference in appearance or qualities.
variation: A difference resulting from changes in time or circumstances.

Definition in French

Écart ou trait qui montre en quoi deux choses ne sont pas identiques.

Word origin

The French noun différence continues Latin differentia through Old French, with its history linked to the verb differre, 'to differ'.

Usage tips

  • Faire la différence entre A et B means to distinguish A from B, whereas faire une différence can mean to have an effect.

Other meanings

  • gapnoun
  • distinctionnoun
  • disagreementnoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word