a distinct

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is clearly different or unique from others. Example: "The artist's style is a distinct blend of modern and traditional techniques."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a distinct disadvantage".

The New York Times

It lacks a distinct border.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is a distinct possibility.

The New York Times - Sports

There is a distinct chill.

The Economist

Each has a distinct style.

The Economist

A distinct plodder.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A distinct resistance to potential.

The New Yorker

A distinct possibility, no doubt.

The New Yorker

Death is a distinct possibility".

The Guardian

Each has a distinct personality.

The New York Times - Arts

He has a distinct audience.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a distinct", ensure the difference you are highlighting is genuinely significant and easily perceivable. Avoid using it for trivial or minor differences.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct" when the difference is not clearly defined or easily understood by the reader. Instead, provide specific details to illustrate the distinct qualities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct" primarily functions as a determiner followed by an adjective, modifying a noun. Ludwig AI shows it precedes nouns to specify something differentiated and easily identifiable. For example, "a distinct style" or "a distinct possibility".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

11%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinct" is a commonly used adjective phrase that indicates a clear and recognizable difference. According to Ludwig AI, it functions to emphasize uniqueness or differentiation and is widely applicable across various contexts, from news and media to encyclopedias and scientific writings. While grammatically correct and versatile, it's best to ensure the distinct quality being described is genuinely significant to maintain clarity and impact. Consider related phrases like ""a unique"" or "a clear" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear

Emphasizes ease of perception or understanding; less about inherent difference.

a unique

Highlights the one-of-a-kind nature of something.

a marked

Implies a noticeable or significant difference.

a definite

Stresses the certainty and unambiguity of something.

a specific

Indicates a particular and well-defined instance.

a noticeable

Focuses on the ease with which something can be observed.

a tangible

Suggests something that can be easily perceived or felt.

a palpable

Indicates something that is easily sensed or felt, often emotionally.

a recognizable

Emphasizes the ability to identify or distinguish something.

an individual

Focuses on separateness and being different from a group.

FAQs

How can I use "a distinct" in a sentence?

Use "a distinct" to describe something that is clearly different or unique. For example, "Each culture has "a unique" identity" or "The wine had "a noticeable" aroma of berries".

What are some alternatives to using "a distinct"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like ""a unique"", "a clear", "a marked", or "a definite".

Which is correct, "a distinct advantage" or "a distinctive advantage"?

"A distinct advantage" refers to a clear and easily recognizable advantage. "A distinctive advantage" refers to an advantage that is characteristic or typical of something. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "distinct" or "different"?

"Distinct" implies a clearer separation or difference than "different". Use "distinct" when the difference is significant and easily perceived. "Different" is a broader term for any kind of dissimilarity.