differences

Meanings

1. 1nounplural

   The ways in which two or more things or people are not the same.

   Grammar: Plural of 'difference'; use it when talking about more than one difference.

   Patterns

   • differences between A and B
   • differences in something
   • there are differences

   There are many differences between the two languages.

   We noticed small differences in the way they spoke.

   The report lists the main differences between the old and new systems.

2. 2nounplural

   Disagreements or arguments between people or groups.

   Grammar: Plural; often used in phrases like 'settle your differences'.

   Patterns

   • settle your differences
   • resolve differences
   • differences with someone

   The two brothers finally settled their differences.

   They are trying to resolve their differences peacefully.

   We have had our differences, but we remain friends.

Word forms

Common combinations

differences between

What are the differences between British and American spelling?

settle your differences

The managers met to settle their differences.

make a difference

A small donation can make a difference.

differences of opinion

There were differences of opinion about the new plan.

Synonyms and how they differ

distinctions

Use 'distinctions' when you are pointing out clear, careful differences, often in academic writing.

disparities

Use 'disparities' for unfair or large differences, especially in amounts or conditions.

Opposites

Word family

difference noun

The singular form; one way in which things are not the same.

different adjective

Not the same as something or someone else.

differently adverb

In a way that is not the same.

differ verb

To be unlike something else.

Commonly confused: differences or difference?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “differences”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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