a distinct honor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct honor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing gratitude or recognition for a special privilege or achievement. Example: "It is a distinct honor to receive this award in recognition of my contributions to the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"The Obama administration's selection of Steve represents a distinct honor for him and a rare opportunity for him to help facilitate our country's economic recovery," Quadrangle said in a statement.

The New York Times

While it may seem like a distinct honor to have someone pay you for taking a week off in the woods after the years you've spent in the lab, you should remember that vacation time is one of the more flexible areas of a job offer.

Science Magazine

"I've been called a lot of things over the years while serving in public office, but to be called the most conservative member of Congress is a distinct honor," the 2nd-term representative told his home-town paper.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Under a proudly distinct honor system intended to buck East Coast practices and reduce operating costs, riders buy their tickets, get on the train and present them to a sheriff's deputy or civilian inspector — if any happen to ask.

The New York Times

This was a very distinct honor not given to many freshmen.

Huffington Post

The changes, which will take effect for the 54th-annual awards ceremony next year, were being made to ensure "that the Grammy remains a rare and distinct honor and continues to be music's most prestigious and only peer-recognized award," Neil Portnow, the organization's president, said at a news conference in Los Angeles that was broadcast live on the Internet.

The New York Times

Over thirty years ago, I had the distinct honor to be a United States Senator.

Huffington Post

Amanda Bynes definitely didn't create the phrase "LOL," but she may have the distinct honor of coining a charming little idiom.

Huffington Post

For the last two years I have had the distinct honor and priviledge to be a panelist at SXSWi.

Huffington Post

It's a pain point for us that our current site has the distinct honor of being among the slowest at AOL. AOL is, well, pretty slow.

TechCrunch

A pioneer in the field of mindful leadership, Marturano had the distinct honor or being invited to speak at the World Economic Forum last year, where top leaders convened to discuss the most pressing global issues of the day.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a distinct honor", ensure that the context reflects a genuine sense of respect and appreciation. Overuse or insincere application can diminish its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct honor" in trivial or mundane situations. Its gravitas should be reserved for truly significant achievements or recognitions to maintain its intended effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct honor" functions as a noun phrase that expresses appreciation or acknowledgement of a special privilege or recognition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and applicability in professional and formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a distinct honor" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, typically used to convey a sense of prestige and appreciation for a special privilege or recognition. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its appropriateness in formal and professional settings. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, reserve it for truly significant achievements to maintain its impact. Alternatives include phrases like "a special privilege" or "a great distinction", depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a special privilege

Focuses on the advantageous aspect of the honor.

a great distinction

Highlights the quality of being set apart or eminent.

a marked honor

Emphasizes the noticeable or significant nature of the honor.

a notable privilege

Underscores the importance and noteworthiness of the privilege.

an exceptional honor

Stresses the rarity and extraordinariness of the honor.

a singular honor

Indicates the unique and unparalleled nature of the honor.

a rare privilege

Highlights the infrequency and preciousness of the privilege.

a noteworthy distinction

Emphasizes the significance and importance of the distinction.

a prestigious honor

Focuses on the high status and esteem associated with the honor.

a signal honor

Implies that the honor serves as an important sign or indication.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a distinct honor"?

Use "a distinct honor" to express genuine appreciation for a special privilege or recognition. It's suitable for formal occasions and when acknowledging significant achievements. For example, in the sentence "The Obama administration's selection of Steve represents a distinct honor for him."

What are some alternatives to saying "a distinct honor"?

You can use alternatives like "a special privilege", "a great distinction", or "a notable privilege" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

How does "a distinct honor" differ from "a great honor"?

"A distinct honor" emphasizes the unique and special nature of the honor, while "a great honor" simply highlights the magnitude or importance of the honor. "Distinct" implies that the honor is set apart from others in some way.

Can I use "distinct honor" without the article "a"?

While grammatically understandable, omitting the article "a" before "distinct honor" makes the phrase less idiomatic and somewhat less formal. It's generally preferred to use "a distinct honor" in most contexts.