a distinct note of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct note of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific quality or characteristic that stands out in something, such as a piece of music, art, or writing. Example: "The painting has a distinct note of melancholy that resonates with the viewer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

A distinct note of resignation has crept into conversations.

The Guardian - Opinion

Lending to buy cars has also been heading upward, though with a distinct note of caution.

The New York Times

Even now, though, he says with a distinct note of self-satisfaction, there is sufficient scope for a prime minister to lead.

The New York Times

The words to which kids doze off sink into them with invisible permanence – and there's a distinct note of Brave New World hypnopaedia about Mommy Rabbit's inexorable drone.

The Guardian - Opinion

But because a cleanup decision on the Hudson has been delayed so many times, some people also struck a distinct note of caution that their fight for the river was not over yet.

The New York Times

The work's Beuysian array of raw material played into minimalist currents in the art world, and the Bloomingdale's-style display of derivative products (lipsticks made of the lard, for example), added a distinct note of feminist wit.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Byatt sounds a polite but distinct note of triumphalism over the way it's beginning to seem, when it comes to the novel, that the past shall be first: "My sister... believes passionately that it is the novelist's duty to write about the present, to confront an age which is 'ugly, incomprehensible and subject to rapid mutations.'..

The New York Times - Books

The confetti meatloaf, served on toasted baguette bread as a sandwich, is tempered with chopped vegetables and distinct note of cumin, which gives it almost a curry flavor.

Los Angeles Times

You can really taste the potato, but there are also distinct notes of spice, fruit, caramel and pepper with a creamy texture.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Bruce Hill of Bix Restaurant in San Francisco, who says the garlic possesses distinct notes of balsamic vinegar, incorporates it into dishes ranging from roast chicken to grilled calamari with fregola and black garlic aioli.

The New York Times - Style

Intense and deeply-flavored, dark fruit manages to maintain richness and lift all at once, with distinct notes of bitter chocolate, coffee, and licorice.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a distinct note of", ensure the characteristic you are describing is genuinely noticeable and contributes meaningfully to the overall impression. Consider whether a more precise adjective might enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct note of" as a filler phrase. If the characteristic you're describing is too subtle to be considered 'distinct', choose a more appropriate term like 'hint' or 'touch'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct note of" functions as a descriptive element, typically modifying a noun to indicate a specific, easily perceptible quality or characteristic. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

23%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinct note of" is a useful phrase for highlighting noticeable qualities or characteristics. As Ludwig AI explains, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly news, science, and academic writing. While versatile, remember to choose the most precise language possible for clarity. Consider alternatives like "clear indication" or "noticeable element" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear indication of

Emphasizes the clarity and directness of the indication.

an evident sign of

Emphasizes that the sign is easy to see and understand.

a noticeable element of

Highlights the element as being easily observed.

a prominent aspect of

Highlights the aspect as being important or noticeable.

a marked degree of

Stresses the extent or intensity of the characteristic.

a recognizable trait of

Focuses on a specific characteristic that is easily identified.

a discernible hint of

Suggests a subtle but perceptible trace.

a telling sign of

Suggests the sign reveals something significant.

a palpable sense of

Focuses on a feeling that is easily perceived.

a tangible quality of

Highlights the characteristic as being concrete and real.

FAQs

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

Use "a distinct note of" to describe a specific, noticeable quality or characteristic present in something. For example, "The music had "a distinct note of sadness".".

What phrases are similar to "a distinct note of"?

Similar phrases include "a clear indication of", "a noticeable element of", and "a marked degree of", each providing a slightly different nuance.

Is it always appropriate to use "a distinct note of" in formal writing?

While "a distinct note of" is generally suitable for formal writing, consider whether a more specific and precise adjective might enhance the clarity and impact of your description.

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

"A distinct note of" implies a more noticeable and prominent characteristic, whereas "a subtle hint of" suggests a less obvious and more understated trace. Choose the phrase that best reflects the degree to which the characteristic is apparent.