a distinct difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing a clear and noticeable contrast between two or more things. Example: "There is a distinct difference between the two approaches to problem-solving, which can lead to varying outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Furthermore, there is a distinct difference between the total expression of the different mitochondrial genes.

BMC Genomics

So I had a distinct difference.

University of California, Berkeley

I see a distinct difference when I'm involved.

University of California, Berkeley

A distinct difference was seen between these roadmaps.

Technological Forecasting and Social Change

In reliability circles, there is a distinct difference.

Safety Design for Space Systems

"I haven't noticed a distinct difference," said Dawn Towe, a recruiter for the Target Corporation.

The New York Times

Yes, but there's a distinct difference between her pre- and post-Empire arena shows.

The Guardian - Music

There is a distinct difference in the way that people play".

The New York Times - Sports

"He was a real improviser and that's a distinct difference to most jazz players," he said.

The New York Times

For her, there is a distinct difference between the terms female and woman.

The Guardian

I noticed a distinct difference after one wash, an even greater one after three to four.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a distinct difference" to emphasize a notable and easily perceivable contrast. This phrase adds weight to your observation and signals a clear distinction for your reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct difference" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language with alternatives like "a clear contrast" or "a marked difference" to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct difference" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a verb. It emphasizes the presence of a clear and easily perceivable contrast between two or more items or concepts. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a way of highlighting a notable distinction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

31%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinct difference" is a phrase used to emphasize a clear and noticeable contrast. As shown by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various domains including science, news, and academia. While "a distinct difference" is a strong and effective phrase, it is important to avoid overuse and consider alternatives like "a clear contrast" or "a noticeable disparity" for variety. The phrase carries a neutral to professional register, making it suitable for a range of writing styles. According to Ludwig AI the phrase is perfectly correct to use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear contrast

Replaces 'distinct difference' with a more direct expression of contrast.

a marked difference

Uses 'marked' to emphasize the noteworthiness of the difference.

a noticeable disparity

Replaces 'difference' with 'disparity' to suggest inequality or imbalance.

a significant variation

Substitutes 'difference' with 'variation', highlighting the degree of change.

an evident distinction

Employs 'evident' to underscore the obviousness of the distinction.

a sharp divergence

Highlights a separation or deviation more acutely than 'difference'.

a palpable contrast

Uses 'palpable' to indicate that the contrast is easily perceived or felt.

a recognizable difference

Focuses on the ease with which the difference can be identified.

an appreciable difference

Implies that the difference is large enough to be important or meaningful.

a tangible difference

Highlights that the difference is concrete and real, not abstract.

FAQs

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

You can use "a distinct difference" to highlight a clear contrast between two or more things. For instance, "There is "a distinct difference" between the two approaches to solving the problem".

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

Alternatives include "a clear contrast", "a marked difference", or "a noticeable disparity", depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "distinct" when describing a difference?

No, using "distinct" is not always necessary. It adds emphasis to the clarity and obviousness of the difference. You can simply say "a difference" if the contrast is less pronounced.

What's the difference between "a distinct difference" and "a subtle difference"?

"A distinct difference" implies a clear and easily noticeable contrast, while "a subtle difference" indicates a contrast that is not immediately obvious and requires closer observation.