a marked difference — a marked difference (noticeable/clear difference)
a very noticeable or obvious difference between two things, often used to emphasize contrast in formal or evaluative contexts.
Say it like a native
Textbook There is a conspicuously perceptible difference between the two.
Native There's a marked difference between the two.
'Conspicuously perceptible' is jargon; 'a marked difference' is the set phrase.
Pattern: a marked difference (between A and B / in something)
In use
- There was a marked difference in her attitude after she returned from her trip abroad.education
- When comparing urban and rural lifestyles, there is often a marked difference in access to healthcare and educational opportunities.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ There's a marked difference of quality.
✓ There's a marked difference in quality.
'A difference IN [quality]'; 'between X and Y'.
Common collocations
a marked difference in— in, between, there's, show
Don't confuse it
Unlike the basic collocation 'a difference', 'a marked difference' emphasizes that the contrast is clear and easy to notice. It is more formal and specific than 'a big difference', and is often used in discussions, presentations, or essays.