3. To have a difference, cause of variance, or quarrel; to dispute; to contend. We 'll never differ with a crowded pit. Rowe.
Syn. — To vary; disagree; dissent; dispute; contend; oppose; wrangle. — To Differ with, Differ from. Both differ from and aiffer with are used in reference to opinions; as, "I differ from you or with you in that opinion."" In all other cases, expressing simple unlikeness, differ from is used; as, these two persons or things differ entirely from each other. Severely punished, not for differing from us in opinion, but for committing a nuisance. Macaulay. Davidson, whom on a former occasion we quoted, to differ from him. M. Arnold. Much as I differ from him concerning an essential part of the historic basis of religion. Gladstone. I differ with the honorable gentleman on that point. Brougham. If the honorable gentleman differs with me on that subject, I differ as heartily with him, and shall always rejoice to differ. Canning.
DIFFER
Dif"fer, v. t.
Defn: To cause to be different or unlike; to set at variance. [R.]
But something 'ts that differs thee and me. Cowley.
DIFFERENCE
Dif"fer*ence, n. Etym: [F. différence, L. differentia.]
1. The act of differing; the state or measure of being different or unlike; distinction; dissimilarity; unlikeness; variation; as, a difference of quality in paper; a difference in degrees of heat, or of light; what is the difference between the innocent and the guilty Differencies of administration, but the same Lord. 1 Cor. xii. 5.
2. Disagreement in opinion; dissension; controversy; quarrel; hence, cause of dissension; matter in controversy. What was the difference It was a contention in public. Shak. Away therefore went I with the constable, leaving the old warden and the young constable to compose their difference as they could. T. Ellwood.
3. That by which one thing differs from another; that which distinguishes or causes to differ;; mark of distinction; characteristic quality; specific attribute. The marks and differences of sovereignty. Davies.
4. Choice; preference. [Obs.] That now be chooseth with vile difference To be a beast, and lack intelligence. Spenser.
5. (Her.)