LM317: Input-to-output differential voltage minimum value

Hi team,

Here is a confusing item of LM317 input-to-output differential voltage range.

Notice that in the datatsheert recommend operating conditions, they is a declaration taht the range is 3v to 40V; so the minimum delta bettwen Vin and Vo could be down to 3V.

However, there is another description in the following chapter 7.5 electical characteristic: VI – VO = 2.5 V to 40 V(Change in ADJUST terminal current) 

So how about this 2.5V minimum differential voltage, which one should we follow? what difference is between this two condition?

Thanks

Best regards

Mia Ma