The phrase "to mean the difference" means that something or someone has a significant impact or makes a noticeable change in a particular situation or outcome. Full definition
Quality care and rapid response time often mean the difference between life and death for the sick or injured animal. (thearkvet.com)
Marriage is, above all, about 50 - 50 partnership; differences in ages also mean differences in life experience and cultural reference points. (businessinsider.com)
They can literally mean the difference of tens of thousands of dollars in your overall account balance by investing in funds with high fees and low fees. (debtroundup.com)