a recognition of distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a recognition of distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to acknowledging someone's exceptional qualities or achievements. Example: "The award serves as a recognition of distinction for those who have made significant contributions to the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In addition to earned degrees, universities and colleges award honorary degrees, such as L.H.D. (Doctor of Humanities), Litt.D. (Doctor of Literature), and D.C.L. (Doctor of Civil Law), as a recognition of distinction without regard to academic attainment.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Using a relatively small dynamic range, bel canto singing was based on an exact control of the intensity of vocal tone, a recognition of the distinction between the "diapason tone" (produced when the larynx is in a relatively low position) and the "flute tone" (when the larynx is in a higher position), and a demand for vocal agility and clear articulation of notes and enunciation of words.

Britannica

In 2012, she was named a Harvard College Professor, in recognition of distinction in undergraduate teaching.

The New Yorker

In 2012, she was named Harvard College Professor, in recognition of distinction in undergraduate teaching.

Harvard University

In fact, distinctions made among the major styles of sculpture are largely based on a recognition of differences in the principles of design that underlie them.

Britannica

There is a recognition of collective powerlessness".

The New York Times

That is simply a recognition of reality.

Independent

A recognition of common law marriage.

WikiHow

Second, they claim that SDCC filed for then abandoned a trademark on the term "comic con" in 1995, then subsequently filed for registration of "Comic-Con" (with the hyphen), indicating an implicit recognition of a distinction between their brand and the generic term.

Forbes

The creation of commercial property rights forced the consideration of the nature of the rights guaranteed in the Treaty of Waitangi, and the subsequent recognition of distinctions between commercial and development rights, other traditional rights to gather seafood for cultural purposes and rights to participate in fisheries management.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Shane Frederick: In my view, at least, a person or a study is behavioral to the extent that there is an explicit recognition of the distinction between a formal characterization of some choice object and the mental representation of that object — the idea that people may think about the same thing in different ways.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a recognition of distinction" when you want to formally acknowledge someone's exceptional quality or achievement, especially in academic or professional contexts. Make sure that the context is appropriate for a somewhat formal tone.

Common error

Avoid using "a recognition of distinction" in informal settings. It can sound stilted or pretentious if used in casual conversation or writing. Consider using simpler alternatives like "acknowledgment of achievement" or "recognition of talent."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a recognition of distinction" functions as a noun phrase. It refers to the act of acknowledging someone's exceptional qualities or achievements. As noted by Ludwig, it serves to highlight and value those qualities.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Academia

17%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

25%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a recognition of distinction" is a grammatically correct, though relatively rare, phrase used to formally acknowledge and honor exceptional merit or achievement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for highlighting and valuing outstanding qualities. While its use spans various contexts, it is particularly prevalent in academic, news, and encyclopedia sources, suggesting a formal register. To achieve the best impact, ensure its use aligns with a formal setting, avoiding more casual contexts where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an acknowledgment of merit

Focuses on the worthiness of the achievement being recognized.

an appreciation of excellence

Highlights the high quality being acknowledged.

a commendation for achievement

Emphasizes the act of formally praising a specific accomplishment.

an award for eminence

Suggests a formal prize given for high standing or reputation.

a tribute to superiority

Implies a celebratory acknowledgement of being the best.

an honor for preeminence

Highlights the superior status being honored.

a validation of exceptionalism

Emphasizes the confirmation of being distinctly above average.

a celebration of talent

Focuses on celebrating someone's natural aptitude or skill.

an affirmation of quality

Highlights the confirmation of high standards.

an identification of notability

Focuses on noticing and pointing out significant qualities.

FAQs

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

You can use "a recognition of distinction" to describe awards, honorary degrees, or acknowledgements of exceptional merit. For example, "The honorary degree was given as a a recognition of distinction in the field of literature."

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

Alternatives include "an "acknowledgment of merit"", "an "appreciation of excellence"", or "a "commendation for achievement"", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "recognition of distinction" formal?

Yes, "a recognition of distinction" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, or ceremonial contexts. Consider using more informal options if the setting is casual.

What's the difference between "recognition of distinction" and "acknowledgment of achievement"?

"Recognition of distinction" typically implies a formal acknowledgement of someone's exceptional qualities, whereas "acknowledgment of achievement" focuses more on the specific accomplishment itself. The phrases can often be used interchangeably but the former implies a higher standard. You can check also the Ludwig's alternatives: "acknowledgment of merit", "appreciation of excellence" and "commendation for achievement"