a distinguishing difference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinguishing difference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when highlighting a specific feature or characteristic that sets something apart from others. Example: "The distinguishing difference between the two products is the quality of materials used in their construction."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The application of CpGlobal to measure the changes in global DNA methylation in lung cancer has demonstrated that there exists a distinguishing difference between Normal Non-Disease and Normal Disease tissue.

BMC Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Another distinguishing difference the team points to is a tamper detection feature to warn if someone is trying to pick the lock.

TechCrunch

"I think the distinguishing difference about this group of people is they are able to share their knowledge," Wilpon said of Koufax, Leiter, Franco and Glavine.

The New York Times - Sports

The only distinguishing difference is the length of the transferred packets.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

This article provides a dynamic account by distinguishing differences in social integration that develop shortly after immigrants' arrival in the host country from changes with length of stay.

Social Science Research

The vision of what was, until this week, called Windows on ARM, or WOA was to produce something that looks and felt like an iPad, but with two distinguishing differences.

The Guardian - Tech

There were distinguishing differences in projections of the geographic patterns of species richness and hotspots between the modelling techniques.

Biological Conservation

However, quantitative distinguishing differences could still be found between the two conditions.

Plosone

In Experiment 1 however, plasma cortisol appeared as more sensitive in distinguishing differences between treatment groups.

BMC Physiology

This chemical variability greatly complicates distinguishing differences in adsorption properties of sediments.

Environmental Science & Technology

Finally, the Stranger distinguishes difference from being.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing persuasively, use "a distinguishing difference" to emphasize the unique value or advantage of something.

Common error

Avoid using too many abstract nouns, like "difference", in succession. This can make your writing sound vague and difficult to follow. Instead, try to use more concrete language to describe the specific difference you are highlighting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinguishing difference" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, emphasizing a specific attribute that differentiates one thing from another. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and highlights its use in emphasizing a specific, notable dissimilarity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a distinguishing difference" is a grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize a unique attribute that sets something apart. According to Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for highlighting specific features, especially in technical or scientific contexts. While not very common, it is found in reputable sources. Consider alternatives like "a notable distinction" or "a key differentiator" to add variety to your writing. Be mindful of overusing abstract nouns for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a notable distinction

Emphasizes the noteworthiness of the difference.

a key differentiator

Highlights the difference as a critical factor.

a defining characteristic

Focuses on the difference as something that shapes identity.

a significant variation

Underscores the importance or extent of the difference.

a clear contrast

Highlights the obvious dissimilarity between things.

a marked divergence

Implies a noticeable departure from a norm or standard.

a unique attribute

Stresses the singularity of the differing feature.

a peculiar trait

Suggests that the difference is unusual or unexpected.

a special quality

Focuses on the positive and exclusive aspect of the difference.

a particular feature

Highlights a specific and distinguishing detail.

FAQs

How can I use "a distinguishing difference" in a sentence?

You can use "a distinguishing difference" to emphasize a unique attribute that sets something apart. For instance, "The "key differentiator" between these models is their energy efficiency."

What are some alternatives to "a distinguishing difference"?

Alternatives include "a notable distinction", "a key differentiator", or "a defining characteristic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a distinguishing difference"?

While "difference" inherently implies distinction, using "a distinguishing difference" can add emphasis to the unique or notable aspect of the difference. It's not strictly redundant, but consider if the emphasis is necessary for your context.

What makes "a distinguishing difference" different from "a slight difference"?

"A distinguishing difference" implies a significant and noticeable dissimilarity that sets something apart, whereas "a slight difference" suggests a minor variation that might not be immediately apparent.