a distinct feeling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct feeling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific or clear emotion or sensation that someone is experiencing. Example: "After hearing the news, she was overcome by a distinct feeling of sadness that lingered throughout the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

"I get a distinct feeling among Aboriginal people that they feel that compensation is an absolute possibility, notwithstanding the prime minister's very vehement statement about not considering it".

The New York Times

For smokers, there is a distinct feeling that the walls are closing in.

The New York Times

I had a distinct feeling that I should take it with me.

The New York Times - Magazine

Now, Jeter said, there is still a distinct feeling to Yankee Stadium, especially at night.

The New York Times - Sports

(If you're a TV-technology geek and you're getting a distinct feeling of déjà vu, congratulations.

The New York Times - Tech

If you've got a distinct feeling of deja vu about what's been going on this weekend, then it's hardly surprising.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

I remember genuinely believing that men were better and I remember a really distinct feeling of being annoyed by the emotional vulnerability of women and being annoyed by the weakness of it.

Vice

Capuano, who at 47 is twice the age of many of his skaters, has melded the club into a group with the distinct feeling of an extended family.

The New York Times - Sports

Also, why do I get the distinct feeling that he feels like we're slumming it.

Huffington Post

Leaving the prison, on a flight from Detroit to Denver, he had awakened from a brief snooze with the distinct feeling that the plane had stopped for a few moments in midair.

The New Yorker

Today, though, has the distinct feeling of a race to the bottom.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a distinct feeling" to clearly convey a specific emotion or sensation. This phrase is particularly effective when you want to emphasize the clarity or uniqueness of the feeling being described. For example: "There was a distinct feeling of unease in the room."

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct feeling" when a more specific term would be more impactful. Instead of saying "I had a distinct feeling about the project", consider specifying the feeling, such as "I felt apprehensive about the project" or "I sensed an opportunity with the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct feeling" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a clear and easily identifiable emotion or sensation. As per Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinct feeling" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that effectively communicates a clear and specific emotion or sensation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Its prevalence in news and media sources indicates its broad applicability, while scientific and formal contexts benefit from its clarity. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the explicitness of the feeling you intend to convey, and consider more specific language when appropriate. Alternative phrases, such as "a clear sensation" or "a palpable sense", can offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear sensation

Replaces "feeling" with "sensation", emphasizing a physical experience rather than an emotion.

a palpable sense

Uses "sense" instead of "feeling", suggesting a more intuitive or perceptive awareness.

a marked impression

Emphasizes the impact of the feeling, focusing on the lasting effect it creates.

a definite emotion

Substitutes "feeling" with "emotion", highlighting the affective aspect of the experience.

a noticeable sentiment

Replaces "feeling" with "sentiment", suggesting a more thoughtful or considered emotion.

a strong intuition

Focuses on the instinctive nature of the feeling, implying a gut reaction.

a profound awareness

Highlights the depth and significance of the feeling, suggesting a deep understanding.

an unmistakable impression

Stresses the clarity and certainty of the feeling, making it impossible to ignore.

a tangible atmosphere

Shifts the focus from personal feeling to an environment that is perceived strongly.

a recognizable undercurrent

Describes the feeling as a subtle but identifiable prevailing influence.

FAQs

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

You can use "a distinct feeling" to describe a clear and specific emotion or sensation. For instance, "I had "a distinct feeling" of being watched" or "There was "a distinct feeling" of excitement in the air".

What are some alternatives to "a distinct feeling"?

Alternatives include "a clear sensation", "a palpable sense", or "a noticeable sentiment", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a distinct feeling" or "a distinctive feeling"?

"Distinct" emphasizes clarity and specificity, while "distinctive" highlights uniqueness. "A distinct feeling" means a clear emotion, while "a distinctive feeling" suggests a unique emotional experience.

What is the difference between "a distinct feeling" and "a strong feeling"?

"A distinct feeling" emphasizes clarity and recognizability, while "a strong feeling" emphasizes intensity. You might have "a distinct feeling" of deja vu, or a strong feeling of anger.