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I am comparing males with females and young adults (18 to 44 years) and adults (45 to 65 years). I want to say:

  1. The group difference based on gender and age is very small.

  2. The group differences based on gender and age are very small.

Which of the above is correct?

I am particularly concerned with "difference" versus "differences".

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    That would depend on how many differences there are. If there is only one, the use difference otherwise use differences
    – Matt E. Эллен
    May 14, 2012 at 9:17
  • Assuming there was a difference because of gender and a difference because of age, you have differences. So I would use your second sentence. (Is the word "group" needed? Could you say, "The differences based on gender and age are very small."?)
    – JLG
    May 14, 2012 at 12:00
  • You will have to come back with a more clearly set out question, with background information and context, that is expressed in simple, proper English. It is not clear what the Q. is. Voting to close.
    – Kris
    May 14, 2012 at 13:16
  • @Kris - the question is quite clear, using simple words, and proper grammar. What's wrong with it?
    – dj18
    May 14, 2012 at 13:49

1 Answer 1

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If you're measuring one variable, use difference. If you're measuring multiple variables, use differences.

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  • Elementary, my dear Watson!
    – Kris
    May 14, 2012 at 17:49

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