a clear distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear distinction" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is often used to describe a noticeable difference between two things or ideas. Example: "There is a clear distinction between right and wrong." This sentence shows that there is a noticeable difference between what is morally acceptable and what is not. Another example: "The company's products have a clear distinction from their competitors." This sentence highlights that the company's products have noticeable differences from those of its competitors.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To Berger, it's a clear distinction.

The Washington Post

Be assured, there is a clear distinction.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The paper gives a clear distinction between vectors and forms.

Journal of Computational Physics

The results show a clear distinction between strategies.

Speech Communication

Again, make a clear distinction between surrendering and resisting.

Columbia University

She also draws a clear distinction over the immigration issue.

The Guardian

The figures show a clear distinction between races.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr Obama draws a clear distinction between Iraq and Syria.

The Economist

We wanted a clear distinction between her and Maeve's character".

The New Yorker

Thus, a clear distinction of the effects of relative density and structure is required.

Acta Materialia

They allowed a clear distinction between European, south-western African and sub-Saharan strains.

Veterinary Microbiology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clear distinction" to emphasize a readily apparent difference between two concepts or entities, ensuring your audience understands the contrast without further explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear distinction" when the difference is nuanced or requires in-depth analysis. Instead, opt for phrases like "a subtle difference" or "a noteworthy similarity" to better reflect the relationship between the subjects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear distinction" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It serves to identify and emphasize an easily perceptible difference between two or more entities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a clear distinction" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to highlight an obvious difference between two or more items. Ludwig AI validates its common usage across diverse sources, including science, news, and academia. While versatile, it's most effective when the distinction is readily apparent, avoiding overuse in cases where differences are subtle. When aiming for alternatives, "a sharp contrast" or "a definite difference" can provide nuanced emphasis. Understanding its usage context and potential pitfalls enhances clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sharp contrast

Emphasizes a more pronounced and noticeable difference.

a definite difference

Highlights the certainty and unambiguity of the difference.

a marked difference

Stresses that the difference is easily observable or significant.

an obvious difference

Indicates a difference that is easily perceived and requires little analysis.

a palpable difference

Suggests a difference that is strongly felt or easily recognized.

a well-defined boundary

Focuses on the precise and distinct separation between two things.

a distinct demarcation

Highlights the act of setting limits or boundaries clearly.

a visible delineation

Emphasizes a visual separation or outlining of differences.

a lucid differentiation

Focuses on the clarity and ease of understanding the difference.

an unambiguous separation

Highlights the absence of doubt or uncertainty in the distinction.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear distinction" in a sentence?

Use "a clear distinction" to highlight an easily recognizable difference between two or more things. For example, "There is "a clear distinction" between weather and climate".

What's the difference between ""a clear distinction"" and "a subtle difference"?

"A clear distinction" points out an obvious and easily noticeable difference, whereas "a subtle difference" implies a less obvious and more nuanced difference that may require closer examination.

Are there alternative ways to express ""a clear distinction""?

Yes, you can use phrases like "a sharp contrast", "a definite difference", or "a marked difference" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use ""a clear distinction"" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that there is an easily recognizable and significant difference between two or more things, ensuring clarity for your audience.