a distinguished lineage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinguished lineage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a family or ancestry that is notable or respected, often in contexts related to heritage or background. Example: "The artist comes from a distinguished lineage of musicians, which has greatly influenced her work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Bruce comes from a distinguished lineage of tea apostles.

The New York Times - Travel

It had an instrument with a distinguished lineage that fell into disrepair as the neighborhood deteriorated in the 1970s.

The New York Times

As such, this ageless 61-year-old makes an inspired choice as director for this year's Meltdown on London's South Bank (the latest in a distinguished lineage that has included David Bowie, Patti Smith and Morrissey).

The Guardian - Music

Villa Vistarenni, also known as Villa Opera, has everything Tuscan dreams are made of: an elegant 17th-century residence, vineyards that produce one of Italy's best-known wines, olive groves, a swimming pool, tennis courts and a distinguished lineage.

The New York Times

The Asian ghost story has a distinguished lineage: serious filmmakers like Kenji Mizoguchi, Masaki Kobayashi and Stanley Kwan have worked in the genre without shame and without a hint of condescension to the shades and specters and odd bits of ectoplasm that populate it.

The New York Times

This unnamed lad joins a distinguished lineage of literary runaways that includes Treasure Island's Jim Hawkins, Frankenstein's monster (last seen "going on an adventure" on an arctic ice floe), most of Joseph Conrad's heroes, and Macaulay Culkin in Home Alone 2: Lost In New York – which, unless I miss my guess, is where he learned how to talk his way into a hotel.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Crescent has a distinguished parentage.

Forbes

Councillor David Sparks has a distinguished pedigree.

BBC

With the maverick Tom Smith as his trainer, he buys a difficult thoroughbred of distinguished lineage, the handsome but rather small chestnut, Seabiscuit.

The Guardian

Of distinguished lineage, he served as a governor and general in the Balkans and Asia Minor in the 1060s.

Wikipedia

Stx-phage insertion site typing distinguished lineage I strains as a separate cluster but lineage II strain EC869 did not form a distinct cluster from the lineage I/II strains.

BMC Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a distinguished lineage", ensure the context clearly establishes the specific qualities or achievements that make the lineage notable. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims of distinction.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a distinguished lineage" automatically guarantees competence or ethical behavior in an individual. Focus on specific accomplishments rather than relying solely on ancestry.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinguished lineage" functions as a descriptive noun phrase. The adjective "distinguished" modifies the noun "lineage", indicating a notable or respected ancestry. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinguished lineage" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as supported by Ludwig AI. It functions as a descriptive noun phrase used to emphasize the noteworthiness of someone's ancestry, often appearing in news and encyclopedia contexts. While not exceedingly common, its usage is appropriate in formal to neutral registers. Related phrases include "a notable ancestry" and "an illustrious heritage". When employing this phrase, ensure that the context sufficiently supports the claim of distinction and avoid overstating the implications of one's ancestry. While "a distinguished lineage" is not very common, its usage in authoritative sources, such as The New York Times and The Guardian, confirms its suitability in high-quality writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a notable ancestry

Replaces "distinguished" with "notable", emphasizing the worthiness of being noted or recognized.

an illustrious heritage

Uses "illustrious" instead of "distinguished", suggesting fame and glory associated with the ancestry.

a prestigious background

Substitutes "lineage" with "background", highlighting the social standing associated with the family's history.

a respected ancestry

Replaces "distinguished" with "respected", focusing on the esteem and admiration the family commands.

a renowned family history

Emphasizes the "family history" and uses "renowned" to indicate widespread fame and respect.

a celebrated heritage

Uses "celebrated" to convey that the heritage is widely acclaimed and honored.

a prominent family line

Focuses on the "family line" being prominent or important.

an eminent ancestry

Replaces "distinguished" with "eminent", suggesting high reputation and outstanding achievement.

a noble descent

Highlights the noble or aristocratic nature of the family's origins.

a remarkable family tree

Focuses on the family's genealogical chart, emphasizing its noteworthy nature.

FAQs

How can I use "a distinguished lineage" in a sentence?

You can use "a distinguished lineage" to describe someone's notable ancestry or family history, for example, "The artist comes from "a distinguished lineage" of musicians."

What are some alternatives to saying "a distinguished lineage"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a notable ancestry", "an illustrious heritage", or "a prestigious background", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a distinguished lineage" in formal writing?

Yes, "a distinguished lineage" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing historical figures, academic achievements, or notable family histories. It conveys respect and emphasizes the importance of ancestry.

What does it mean to have "a distinguished lineage"?

To have "a distinguished lineage" means that one's family history is marked by notable achievements, social status, or respected qualities. It implies a heritage of excellence or importance.