C1noun 2K

Distinction

🇬🇧 UK /["/dɪˈstɪŋkʃn/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/dɪˈstɪŋkʃn/"]/

Meaning of Distinction

a clear difference or contrast especially between people or things that are similar or related

In simple words: A difference or quality that makes something special.

Distinction in a sentence

• She earned a distinction in her final exams for her outstanding performance.
• The distinction between classical and modern art is often debated among experts.
• He received a special distinction for his contributions to the company.
• There is a clear distinction in flavor between these two types of coffee.
• Achieving distinction in literature requires creativity and discipline.
• The subtle distinction that separates these languages can be challenging to notice.

How to use Distinction

Use 'distinction' in academic or formal contexts to explain differences. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

make a distinction + between A and B

Memory hint

Think of 'distinction' as a 'distinct action' — making something stand out.

Related words

Collocations with Distinction

• critical
• crucial
• important
• draw
• make
• note
• lie
• exist
• without distinction
• distinction between
• distinction of
• considerable
• great
• dubious
• have
• achieve
• earn
• belong
• of distinction
• with distinction
• considerable
• great
• dubious
• have
• achieve
• earn
• belong
• of distinction
• with distinction

Synonyms for Distinction

• difference
• distinction mark
• disparity
• contrast
• division

Opposites of Distinction

• similarity
• unity

Common mistakes with Distinction

• Confusing 'distinction' with 'distinguish'
• Using 'distinction' in informal speech
• Omitting 'between' when making a distinction

Frequently asked questions about Distinction

What does Distinction mean?

A difference or quality that makes something special.

What is the definition of Distinction?

a clear difference or contrast especially between people or things that are similar or related

How do you use Distinction in a sentence?

She earned a distinction in her final exams for her outstanding performance.

Can you give another example of Distinction?

The distinction between classical and modern art is often debated among experts.

What are synonyms for Distinction?

Common alternatives include difference, distinction mark, disparity, contrast, division.

What is the opposite of Distinction?

Opposite meanings include similarity, unity.

What words go with Distinction?

It commonly pairs with critical, crucial, important, draw, make, note, lie, exist, without distinction, distinction between, distinction of, considerable, great, dubious, have, achieve, earn, belong, of distinction, with distinction, considerable, great, dubious, have, achieve, earn, belong, of distinction, with distinction.

What are common mistakes when using Distinction?

Confusing 'distinction' with 'distinguish' Using 'distinction' in informal speech Omitting 'between' when making a distinction

How do you pronounce Distinction?

US: /["/dɪˈstɪŋkʃn/"]/, UK: /["/dɪˈstɪŋkʃn/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Distinction?

Use 'distinction' in academic or formal contexts to explain differences. Avoid in casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Distinction?

"Distinction" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.