1. The state of being unlike:
* This refers to the distinct qualities that set two things apart.
* For example: "There is a big difference between apples and oranges."
2. The amount by which one thing is greater or less than another:
* This refers to the quantity that separates two things.
* For example: "The difference between 10 and 5 is 5."
3. An argument or disagreement:
* This refers to a conflict of opinions between people.
* For example: "They had a difference of opinion about the best way to proceed."
4. A point of distinction or variation:
* This refers to a unique characteristic that sets something apart.
* For example: "The main difference between these two models is the price."
5. A variation or change:
* This refers to the process of becoming different from a previous state.
* For example: "The company is undergoing a period of significant difference."
To understand the meaning of "difference" in a specific context, consider the words around it and the overall meaning of the sentence.
For example:
* "There is a big difference in their ages." (Meaning 2)
* "They had a difference about the best way to spend the money." (Meaning 3)
* "What is the difference between these two products?" (Meaning 1)