Difference Meaning

UK /ˈdɪf(ə)r(ə)ns/
US /ˈdɪfərəns/
Word Definition
difference meaning

Difference Definition & Usage

noun

The state or condition of being dissimilar or unlike in characteristics, qualities, or features.

Examples

  • "There is a significant difference in taste between the two wines."
  • "The difference between the two proposals is mainly in their cost."
  • "She didn't see any difference between the two paintings."
  • "Their opinions on the matter are so different that it's hard to reach an agreement."
  • "The difference in temperature between summer and winter here is remarkable."
noun

The result of subtracting one number or quantity from another.

Examples

  • "The difference between 15 and 8 is 7."
  • "Can you find the difference between 102 and 57?"
  • "The teacher asked us to calculate the difference of 100 and 45."
  • "When subtracting, the difference is always the result of the operation."
  • "The difference in height between the two buildings is 30 meters."
noun

A point or element that distinguishes two groups or individuals, often related to culture, identity, or background.

Examples

  • "The difference in their cultural backgrounds made communication challenging at times."
  • "There are many differences between the way men and women are treated in different societies."
  • "We should appreciate the difference in everyone's experience and background."
  • "Her accent was a noticeable difference from the rest of the group."
  • "The difference in their social status was evident in how they were treated at the event."
noun

A distinguishing characteristic or feature used to compare things or ideas.

Examples

  • "The difference in their approaches to problem-solving was clear."
  • "One noticeable difference between the two cities is their public transport systems."
  • "The key difference lies in how they handle customer service."
  • "The difference between the two policies is subtle but important."
  • "What is the key difference between these two approaches?"

Cultural Context

The concept of 'difference' is foundational in fields such as linguistics, philosophy, and social studies, where it often denotes distinction and diversity. It is frequently used in discussions of identity, inequality, and human relations. In everyday language, people regularly use 'difference' to refer to physical, psychological, and social distinctions.

The Art of Difference

Story

The Art of Difference

In a small village nestled between rolling hills, two young artists, Clara and Theo, set out to create their masterpieces for the annual town exhibition. Clara, with her bright, abstract paintings, sought to highlight the differences between nature and human life, portraying scenes where cities and forests intertwined in surreal patterns. Theo, on the other hand, focused on the difference between tradition and modernity, capturing the essence of old craftsmanship in the digital age. As the exhibition approached, the two artists spent hours discussing their work. Clara said, 'I think the difference in our approaches is what makes the show so interesting. You focus on the past, while I look towards the future.' Theo smiled, adding, 'But isn't the past still part of the difference we need to acknowledge in the present? Without it, how can we ever understand the present clearly?' The exhibition night arrived, and as the townspeople wandered between the two booths, they couldn’t help but notice the stark differences in their work. Some were drawn to Theo’s intricate portraits of the village’s history, while others were fascinated by Clara’s vibrant depictions of a world yet to come. In one corner, an elderly man stood staring at both pieces, pondering, 'What is the true difference between these two visions of life?' he asked aloud. A nearby child piped up, 'I think the difference is that they make us think.' The night ended with both artists feeling a sense of pride. Not because one work was better than the other, but because their difference in perspective had brought something new to the community. They realized that the beauty of their art lay not just in what they painted, but in the differences they highlighted for others to see and appreciate. And so, the story of Clara and Theo continued, a reminder that difference, whether in art, ideas, or life, holds the power to challenge, inspire, and unite.

The Art of Difference