The phrase "difference in the real world" means what happens or is observed in actual life or practical situations, as opposed to theories or ideas that might not have the same impact or result in practice. Full definition
True, too: Platforms don't usually make much difference in the real world once the conventions and election are over. (educationnext.org)
Targeting changes to regulation, especially HSE's # 750 charge for faults found during an inspection, until things are better in the economy, would make a real difference in the real world. (politics.co.uk)
What's far more fluid, unpredictable, and — frankly — worrying are the two elements of standards - based reform that make a vastly greater difference in the real world than standards themselves: implementation and assessment. (educationnext.org)