a distinct interest

USAGE SUMMARY

"a distinct interest" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that stands out from the rest or is significantly different from what is usually seen. Example: "She had a distinct interest in ancient history that helped her stand out from other applicants."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Some argue that it is not a distinct interest group system at all but rather just another form of pluralism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What if, like our northern European neighbours, Britain had a proportional electoral system generating coalitions of relatively small parties, each representing a distinct interest group?

The Economist

Justice Breyer said suits under the law should be allowed when "the defendant's conduct substantially and adversely affects an important American national interest, and that includes a distinct interest in preventing the United States from becoming a safe harbor (free of civil as well as criminal liability) for a torturer or other common enemy of mankind".

The New York Times

Berg has a distinct interest in career-related issues, Kaiser noted.

Science Magazine

So "the government" can constitute a distinct interest group.

Huffington Post

The Spanish faced another problem, distance, which gave them a distinct interest in intervening in the Cologne affair.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Shore had a very distinct interest in a couple of particular fashion accessories that just screamed that they came from the best decade ever.

Huffington Post

In Rembrandt's day there was a fast-growing but distinct interest in art and artists, with a public that was designated as Liefhebbers van de Schilderkonst ("Lovers of the Art of Painting").

Encyclopedia Britannica

This paper illustrates a likelihood approach to correctly model the design of clinical studies under the conditions where (1) the theoretical model may include an instantaneous state of distinct interest to the researchers and (2) the study design may be such that study data cannot be used to estimate a single parameter in the theoretical model of interest.

Information Fusion

Valery Bulhakau, an editor-in-chief of a magazine Arche and a PhD in nationalism studies believes there is "a distinct growing interest in the Belarusian culture" and even goes as far as calling it a "national revival".

The Guardian

The conduct in this case happened abroad, Justice Breyer wrote, and "based solely upon the defendants' minimal and indirect American presence," it would be "far-fetched to believe" the case "helps to vindicate a distinct American interest".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ this phrase to emphasize a particular focus or concern that differentiates someone or something from the norm.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct interest" when a simpler term like "interest" would suffice. Overuse dilutes the impact and can make your writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct interest" functions as a noun phrase, where 'distinct' modifies 'interest', indicating a particular or unique focus. Ludwig provides examples that support this grammatical role.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinct interest" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig. It emphasizes a specific or unique focus, concern, or passion. While not overly common, it is frequently found in News & Media and Science sources, suggesting a neutral to professional register. To maximize clarity, use this phrase when you want to highlight a particular inclination that sets something apart. Avoid overuse to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular interest

Emphasizes the specific nature of the interest.

a specific concern

Shifts the focus to a matter of worry or importance.

a marked inclination

Highlights a tendency or preference.

a keen enthusiasm

Focuses on a strong feeling of excitement.

a notable curiosity

Emphasizes the desire to know or learn something.

a strong passion

Highlights a powerful emotion or dedication.

a special investment

Shifts to the level of engagement and commitment.

a unique focus

Highlights the specificity and singularity of attention given.

a clear preference

Emphasizes the obvious choice or liking for something.

a separate consideration

Highlights the distinctiveness and the need for individual attention.

FAQs

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

You can use "a distinct interest" to highlight a particular focus or passion. For example, "She has "a distinct interest" in marine biology, leading her to pursue oceanography".

What are some alternatives to "a distinct interest"?

Alternatives include "a particular interest", "a specific concern", or "a marked inclination" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "distinct interest" or "special interest"?

"Distinct interest" emphasizes uniqueness, while "special interest" suggests importance or privilege. The best choice depends on the specific meaning you want to convey.

How does "a distinct interest" differ from "a general interest"?

"A distinct interest" implies a focused and specific area of concern or enthusiasm, whereas "a general interest" suggests a broader, less defined area of curiosity or engagement.