a sharp distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sharp distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing a clear and noticeable difference between two or more things. Example: "There is a sharp distinction between the roles of a manager and a leader in an organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But, over time, he'd stopped drawing a sharp distinction between the various levels of punishment.

The New Yorker

A sharp distinction is drawn between city administration and suburban administration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Menand drew a sharp distinction between 21st-­century Americans and the readers of Trilling's day.

The New York Times - Books

In particular, they drew a sharp distinction between physical property and intellectual property.

The New Yorker

Mr. Wu draws a sharp distinction, however, between that work and creating embryos for science.

The New York Times

The poem sets up a sharp distinction between Odysseus' fantasy and Penelope's realism.

The New Yorker

Since at least the 17th century, a sharp distinction has been drawn between a priori knowledge and a posteriori knowledge.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There is a sharp distinction between ionic and covalent bonds when the geometric arrangements of atoms in compounds are considered.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Aides said yesterday that Mr. Pataki had intended to make a sharp distinction between the recovery projects and the list.

The New York Times

Mr. Baudis said that he drew a sharp distinction between erotic films, which he said were perfectly acceptable, and pornography.

The New York Times

But then, there has always been a sharp distinction between billionaires and their businesses, and billionaires and their passions.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sharp distinction" to emphasize a clear and easily recognizable difference between two or more concepts or items. This phrase is particularly effective when the difference is crucial to understanding a topic.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "a sharp distinction" in very informal settings may sound overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "clear difference" or "big contrast" in casual conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sharp distinction" functions as a noun phrase that serves to introduce or highlight a significant and easily discernible difference between two or more entities. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Encyclopedias

19%

Science

41%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sharp distinction" is a correct and frequently used noun phrase that effectively emphasizes a clear and noticeable difference. As confirmed by Ludwig, its usage spans across diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While generally neutral to formal in tone, it's most impactful when highlighting crucial differences. For more casual settings, alternatives like "clear difference" may be more appropriate. Ultimately, choosing "a sharp distinction" helps ensure your message is precise and easily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear demarcation

This emphasizes the setting of boundaries or limits.

a pronounced difference

This highlights how noticeable the difference is.

a distinct contrast

This focuses on the opposition between the items being compared.

a marked separation

This suggests a clear division or boundary.

a significant differentiation

Highlights an important and meaningful difference.

a notable disparity

Emphasizes the inequality or imbalance between two things.

an evident divergence

Indicates a clear parting or deviation from a common point.

a strong contrast

It underlines the strength and importance of the difference.

a decided difference

This suggests a resolute and unambiguous difference.

an obvious distinction

Highlights that the difference is easily noticeable.

FAQs

How can I use "a sharp distinction" in a sentence?

You can use "a sharp distinction" to highlight clear differences. For example, "There is "a sharp distinction" between theoretical knowledge and practical experience".

What are some alternatives to "a sharp distinction"?

Alternatives include "a clear difference", "a distinct contrast", or "a marked separation". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a sharp distinction" or "a significant difference"?

"A sharp distinction" emphasizes clarity and easy recognition of the difference, while "a significant difference" highlights the importance or impact of the difference. Choose the phrase that best suits the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a sharp distinction" and "a fine distinction"?

"A sharp distinction" refers to a clear and obvious difference. Conversely, "a fine distinction" refers to a subtle or delicate difference that may be difficult to perceive.