distinction
dih-STIHNGK-shuhn
Distinction (noun) means a difference or contrast between two things. Example: “Many learners struggle to see the distinction between these two similar words.”
noun
1
A difference or contrast between two things.
"Many learners struggle to see the distinction between these two similar words."
"The teacher drew a clear distinction between being alone and being lonely."
"There is an important distinction between the two terms."
2
A special honor or mark of excellence.
"The school awarded her a distinction for her outstanding science project."
"She graduated with distinction."
"He served with great distinction in the war."
How to use distinction
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA clear difference between things, or a mark of honor and excellence.
Common pairings
make a distinction
draw a distinction
graduate with distinction
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Word forms
- Plural
- distinctions
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Many learners struggle to see the _____ between these two similar words.
Etymology
From Latin distinctio, "a separating, dividing," from distinguere.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for distinction
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for distinction →
Frequently asked questions
What does “distinction” mean?
The word “distinction” means a difference or contrast between two things. In plain terms, a clear difference between things, or a mark of honor and excellence.
How do you pronounce “distinction”?
“Distinction” is pronounced dih-STIHNGK-shuhn (/dɪˈstɪŋkʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “distinction” in a sentence?
Here is “distinction” used in a sentence: “There is an important distinction between the two terms.”
What is the opposite of “distinction”?
The opposite of “distinction” — its antonyms — is confusion.
What part of speech is “distinction”?
“Distinction” is a noun.
Where does the word “distinction” come from?
The word “distinction” comes from Latin. From Latin distinctio, "a separating, dividing," from distinguere.
Is “distinction” a common word?
“Distinction” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “distinction” have?
“Distinction” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a difference or contrast between two things.
What is the difference between distinction and difference?
A difference is simply any way in which two things are not the same. A distinction is a difference that has been recognised or drawn deliberately, often a subtle or important one, as when you 'make a distinction' between two closely related ideas.
What is the difference between distinction and honour?
Both can refer to a mark of excellence, but a distinction is usually a specific recognition earned for outstanding performance, such as in an exam. Honour is a broader term covering respect, integrity, and a wide range of awards or privileges.
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