difference

[dif-er-uhns, dif-ruhns] / ˈdɪf ər əns, ˈdɪf rəns /

NOUN

dissimilarity, distinctness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

change characteristic contrast discrepancy disparity distinction divergence diversity inequality variation

STRONG

aberration alteration anomaly antithesis asymmetry contrariety contrariness departure deviation differentiation digression exception heterogeneity idiosyncrasy irregularity nonconformity opposition particularity peculiarity separateness separation singularity unlikeness variance variety

WEAK

discongruity dissemblance unconformity unorthodoxness

Antonyms

STRONGEST

likeness sameness similarity uniformity

STRONG

conformity correspondence regularity

WEAK

alikeness

NOUN

opposing views

Synonyms

STRONGEST

argument clash conflict controversy debate disagreement discord dispute quarrel

STRONG

beef blowup brawl brush brush-off contention contrariety contretemps discordance dissension dissent dissidence disunity dustup estrangement hassle row run-in scrap set-to spat strife tiff variance words wrangle

WEAK

bone to pick brannigan disaccord

Antonyms

STRONGEST

accord agreement harmony peace

STRONG

approval authorization concurrence ratification

WEAK

alikeness assent consent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Acting on emotions creates what analysts call a “behavior gap,” which is the difference between strong returns and poor returns that tend to be associated with reactionary decision-making.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

It’s the difference between building a steel mill, and betting on whether or not a steel mill gets built.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

The only difference is that the tool in this case had the letters “AI” attached to it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

Joining Stevenson in speaking to the BBC, Page said: "It's always a strange feeling...but it does really make you feel like what you've done has been worthwhile and you really have made a difference."

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

“Do you know the difference between a blouse and a vest?”

From "Not Nothing" by Gayle Forman

difference

Example Sentences

Related Words