a distinct class of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct class of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific category or group that is clearly defined and differentiated from others. Example: "In the study of animal behavior, researchers identified a distinct class of social insects that exhibit unique communication patterns."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A distinct class of metal oxide with distinctive magnetic properties and superior biocompatibility are is found in iron oxide nanoparticles.

International Nano Letters

There is a distinct class of people here and a unique language known as "Bawlmorese".

The Guardian - Travel

Repetitive processes are a distinct class of 2D systems of both theoretical and practical interest.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Proton aurorae are a distinct class of auroral phenomena caused by energetic protons precipitating into a planetary atmosphere.

Nature

Carmona-Rivera, C. & Kaplan, M. J. Low-density granulocytes: a distinct class of neutrophils in systemic autoimmunity.

Nature

We find a role of context, but no evidence of a distinct class of predicates that resists collective interpretations.

Stanford University

Small arms did not exist as a distinct class of gunpowder weapon until the middle of the 15th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sumoy, L. et al. HMG20A and HMG20B map to human chromosomes 15q24 and 19p13.3 and constitute a distinct class of HMG-box genes with ubiquitous expression.

Nature

In the treasurer's estimation, pension and benefit recipients represent a distinct class of "entitled" rent-seekers who are a burden on Australian workers.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although agm2C is chemically similar to lysidine, TiaS constitutes a distinct class of enzyme from tRNAIle-lysidine synthetase (TilS), suggesting that the decoding systems evolved convergently across domains.

Nature

Lőrincz, M. L. et al. A distinct class of slow (~0.2-2 Hz) intrinsically bursting layer 5 pyramidal neurons determines UP/DOWN state dynamics in the neocortex.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a distinct class of", ensure that the characteristics differentiating this class are clearly defined for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct class of" when the differences are minor or insignificant. Overusing this phrase can weaken its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct class of" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically used to introduce a noun or noun phrase that represents a particular category or group with unique characteristics. Ludwig AI examples show it in various academic and scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinct class of" is a phrase used to introduce a specific group or category with unique characteristics. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and most frequently appears in science, news and media, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the distinguishing characteristics are clearly defined. While alternatives like "a unique category of" or "a separate kind of" exist, the best choice depends on the specific context and the desired emphasis. Avoid overuse to maintain its impact and ensure clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a unique category of

Emphasizes the uniqueness of the category, highlighting its special attributes.

a separate kind of

Focuses on the separateness and difference in type.

a specific type of

Highlights the specificity and particular nature of the type.

a particular group of

Emphasizes the specific and individual nature of the group.

a special form of

Highlights the unique and exceptional nature of the form.

an individual sort of

Focuses on the individuality and distinctiveness of the sort.

a characteristic set of

Highlights the unique traits and attributes of the set.

a discrete body of

Emphasizes the clear and distinct nature of the body.

a singular variety of

Highlights the uniqueness and rarity of the variety.

a marked class of

Stresses the noticeable and significant characteristics of the class.

FAQs

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

You can use "a distinct class of" to introduce a specific category or group that differs noticeably from others, such as "Iron oxide nanoparticles are "a distinct class of" metal oxide with distinctive magnetic properties".

What is a good alternative to "a distinct class of"?

Alternatives include "a unique category of", "a separate kind of", or "a specific type of" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "very distinct class of"?

While not grammatically incorrect, using "very distinct" might be redundant. "Distinct" already implies a clear differentiation, so adding "very" might not add significant meaning. Consider if intensifying the distinctiveness is truly necessary.

When should I use "a distinct class of" versus "a distinct type of"?

Use "a distinct class of" when referring to a broader categorization or classification. Use "a distinct type of" when referring to a specific kind or variety within a larger category. The choice depends on the level of generality you want to convey.