a mark of distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

"a mark of distinction" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe something that sets someone or something apart from others, as a symbol of excellence or achievement. Example: Winning the Nobel Prize is considered a mark of distinction among scientists and researchers.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Nontraditional designer labels can be a mark of distinction.

The New York Times

It's a sign of quality and a mark of distinction.

The Guardian - Music

Elsewhere, personalised car number plates are considered an amusing accessory or a mark of distinction.

Independent

She felt almost compelled to win as many prizes as possible, as a mark of distinction.

The New Yorker

At various times, it has seemed an embarrassment, a mark of distinction, an unavoidable sentence.

The New York Times - Science

Mr. Haye's solution was to turn being out of the way into a mark of distinction.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

For someone who wears clothes rather than mimics trends, that is a mark of some distinction.

The New York Times - Magazine

Oxford did indeed write verse, as did other gentlemen; sonneteering was a mark of gentlemanly distinction.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For the Turkish-educated elite, a sound knowledge of Persian language and literature remained a mark of cultural distinction well into the 19th century.

The New York Times - Arts

Its planners speak of projected budgets -- of a "$40 million building" or a "$50 million building" -- as if a high price tag were roughly tantamount to the Palladian style or the Classical style as a mark of architectural distinction.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was a mark of further distinction that the studio elected to carry a new franchise in the early 60s - the James Bond pictures - which have no rival for longevity and profitability.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a mark of distinction", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being distinguished and the qualities that elevate it. For example, specify the award, skill, or characteristic that sets the subject apart.

Common error

Avoid using "a mark of distinction" to describe trivial accomplishments or commonplace attributes. The phrase suggests a notable and recognized achievement, so reserve it for genuinely exceptional cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mark of distinction" functions as a noun phrase that identifies something as outstanding or exceptional. It typically acts as a predicate nominative or an appositive, as seen in the Ludwig examples where it describes various achievements and qualities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a mark of distinction" is a frequently used phrase that identifies something as outstanding or exceptional. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and found across various reputable sources, including news media and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly supports the significance of the distinction being made. While versatile, it is best suited for neutral to formal communication, signifying achievements or qualities that set something apart. Alternatives such as "a badge of honor" or "a symbol of excellence" can provide similar but nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a badge of honor

Emphasizes the honor and pride associated with achieving distinction.

a symbol of excellence

Highlights the quality of being outstanding or exceptionally good.

a sign of prestige

Focuses on the high status and respect gained.

a hallmark of quality

Indicates a characteristic feature that ensures high standards.

an emblem of success

Represents the achievement of desired aims or outcomes.

a testament to achievement

Highlights the evidence of successful accomplishment.

a credit to

Indicates something that brings praise or honor.

a feather in one's cap

Represents an accomplishment that one can be proud of.

a claim to fame

Implies a notable achievement that brings recognition.

a source of pride

Focuses on the feeling of deep pleasure and satisfaction derived from an achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "a mark of distinction" in a sentence?

You can use "a mark of distinction" to describe achievements or qualities that set something or someone apart. For example, "Winning the competition was "a mark of distinction" for the team".

What are some alternatives to "a mark of distinction"?

Some alternatives include "a badge of honor", "a symbol of excellence", or "a sign of prestige", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a mark of distinction" in informal writing?

While generally suitable for formal contexts, using "a mark of distinction" in informal writing may sound overly sophisticated. Consider simpler alternatives like "something special" or "a notable achievement".

What makes something qualify as "a mark of distinction"?

For something to qualify as "a mark of distinction", it should represent a significant achievement, unique quality, or recognized symbol of excellence that sets it apart from the ordinary.