Langimage
English

difference

|dif/fer/ence|

B1

/ˈdɪfərəns/

not the same

Etymology
Etymology Information

'difference' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'differentia,' where 'differre' meant 'to carry apart.'

Historical Evolution

'differentia' transformed into the Old French word 'difference,' and eventually became the modern English word 'difference' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'distinction or diversity,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a point or way in which people or things are not the same.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a point or way in which people or things are not the same.

There is a significant difference between the two proposals.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

the state or condition of being dissimilar.

The difference in their opinions led to a heated debate.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35