a distinct category

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct category" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific classification or group that is clearly defined and separate from others. Example: "In our research, we identified a distinct category of plants that thrive in arid environments."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The state has merely chosen not to fund a distinct category of instruction.

The New York Times

In the District, the Red Hen, Ripple and Dino offer orange wines as a distinct category.

The Washington Post

It also innovated a distinct category of metalinguistic negation in the form of *matsi.

University of California, Berkeley

First Novels exist as a distinct category, in part, because all novelists must write one.

Columbia University

In 1978, the UCI recognised corticosteroids as a distinct category and restricted their use for Olympic competition.

The Guardian - Sport

Rather than unconstitutionally discriminating against religion, "the state has merely chosen not to fund a distinct category of instruction".

The New York Times

Resident desert birds are a distinct category, numbering about 24 kinds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This realization led to the emergence of as a distinct category of aircraft.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But I believe they define a distinct category of influences on state behavior that is helpful in understanding that behavior.

Columbia University

"Crime as a Distinct Category of Behavior," in The New Palgrave Dictionary of Economics and the Law, Macmillan, 1998.

Yale University

And, as event-related methods have become ubiquitous, they no longer represent a distinct category of fMRI research.

NeuroImage

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a distinct category", ensure the criteria that differentiate it from other categories are clearly defined and understood.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct category" when the category significantly overlaps with existing ones. Ensure there are clear and non-overlapping criteria for differentiation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct category" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object within a sentence. Ludwig examples show it's used to classify and differentiate items or concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a distinct category" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to classify and differentiate items or concepts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, including academic, scientific, and news media, and its purpose is to establish a clear distinction. To maintain clarity, ensure the distinguishing criteria are well-defined. Alternatives such as "a separate category" or "a unique category" can be used to emphasize different aspects of the classification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a separate category

Emphasizes the separateness of the category more directly.

a unique category

Highlights the uniqueness rather than just the distinctiveness.

a specific category

Focuses on the specificity and clarity of the category.

a discrete category

Implies a clear and definable boundary for the category.

a well-defined category

Stresses the clarity and precision of the category's definition.

an individual category

Highlights the singularity and separateness of the category.

a particular category

Emphasizes that the category is special and not generally applicable.

a specialized category

Suggests the category is tailored to a specific area or purpose.

a self-contained category

Implies the category is independent and complete within itself.

an independent category

Underscores the autonomy and separateness of the category.

FAQs

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

You can use "a distinct category" when referring to a clearly defined and separate classification or group. For example, "This research identifies a distinct category of mental disorders characterized by specific symptoms."

What are some alternatives to using "a distinct category"?

Alternatives include "a separate category", "a unique category", or "a specific category", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify why something is "a distinct category"?

While not always mandatory, specifying the distinguishing characteristics helps ensure clarity and avoids ambiguity. Providing context enhances the reader's understanding.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the phrase "a distinct category"?

The phrase is appropriate in academic, scientific, and professional contexts where precise classification and clear differentiation are essential. It's also suitable for news and media when reporting on new classifications or divisions.