split the difference

Idioms and Phrases

Compromise between two close figures, divide the remainder equally. For example, You're asking $5,000 for the car and I'm offering $4,000; let's split the difference and make it $4,500 . [c. 1700]

Example Sentences

The Harris campaign has been trying to split the difference.

From Salon

Several contemporary observers have tried to split the difference: Think like Jacobs, act like Moses.

From Slate

China’s Aura: The Forest at the Edge of the Sky attempts to split the difference between a Meow Wolf-like art exhibition and a traditional shopping experience.

From Los Angeles Times

The images split the difference between something childlike and fanciful street art.

From Los Angeles Times

She split the difference here, engaging both producers, and I think Swifties vote yes.

From New York Times

Related Words

• agree
• negotiate