Distinction
dɪˈstɪŋkʃən
Definitions
2 meaningsA difference or contrast between similar things or people.
dɪˈstɪŋkʃən
The judge made a clear distinction between the two accounts.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're comparing two types of cookies. A 'distinction' is like pointing out how one is chewy and the other is crunchy – those are the differences that set them apart!
👶 For kids: When you can tell the difference between two things, like a cat and a dog, that's a distinction!
More Examples
It is important to make a distinction between correlation and causation.
There is a subtle distinction between the two flavors.
How It's Used
"The essay explores the subtle distinctions between two philosophical viewpoints."
"The company's success lies in its clear distinction from its competitors."
"There is a clear distinction between right and wrong."
Excellence or eminence; the quality of being worthy of honor or respect.
dɪˈstɪŋkʃən
She received a medal for her distinction in the field of science.
💡 Simply: Imagine winning a super important award! 'Distinction' is like when you get recognized for being the best and everyone celebrates how amazing you are.
👶 For kids: When you do something really, really good, like getting all your stars on a test, and people notice how great you did, that's a distinction!
More Examples
The university conferred an honorary degree with distinction.
His work brought him international distinction.
How It's Used
"The student graduated with distinction."
"He was a man of great distinction in his field."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
without distinction
In a manner that does not differentiate or make special allowances for certain types of people or things.
"The law applies to everyone without distinction."
a person of distinction
A person who is respected, admired, or successful.
"He was a person of distinction, highly regarded by his peers."
From Latin *distinguere* (to distinguish), through Old French *distinction*. The word's development reflects the human need to differentiate between things, ideas, and people.
Historically, 'distinction' was used in legal and philosophical contexts to emphasize differentiations between concepts, rights, and types of people.
Memory tip
Think of a DISTINCT sign - it sets things apart.
Word Origin
"to separate; to set apart"