a sharp distinction between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sharp distinction between" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing differences or contrasts between two or more subjects, emphasizing clarity and precision in the distinction. Example: "There is a sharp distinction between the roles of a manager and a leader in an organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

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

The New Yorker

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

The New Yorker

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

The New Yorker

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

The New York Times - Books

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

Some people see a sharp distinction between leadership and management – between establishing the vision and organising its implementation.

The Guardian

The Supreme Court drew a sharp distinction between "discrete acts" of discrimination and the continuing effects of past violations.

The New York Times

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

The New York Times

Echoing Jefferson, these rabbis drew a sharp distinction between the true religion of Jesus and the false religion about him.

The New York Times - Magazine

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

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sharp distinction between", ensure that both elements being compared are clearly defined. This enhances the clarity and impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a sharp distinction between" when the differences are subtle or nuanced. Overstating the distinction can weaken your argument if the contrast is not as significant as claimed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sharp distinction between" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a comparison, highlighting a notable contrast. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase emphasizes the clarity and significance of the difference being discussed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sharp distinction between" is a widely used and grammatically correct way to emphasize a clear and significant difference between two entities. Ludwig's examples show its application across diverse fields such as news, science, and encyclopedias. This phrase is valuable for analytical writing and clear communication, and while versatile, it is important to ensure that the distinction is genuinely significant to avoid overstatement. Related phrases like "a clear demarcation between" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear demarcation between

Focuses on establishing precise boundaries or limits that separate two things.

a marked contrast between

Emphasizes the noticeable differences when comparing two things.

a significant difference between

Highlights the importance or impact of the distinction.

a notable divergence between

Indicates a deviation or branching off in different directions.

a pronounced separation between

Stresses the distinctness and lack of overlap between two entities.

a well-defined boundary between

Suggests a clear and easily recognizable division.

a categorical division between

Implies that two things belong to entirely different categories.

a fundamental opposition between

Indicates a deep and irreconcilable difference in nature or principle.

a stark dissimilarity between

Highlights the extreme lack of resemblance or commonality.

a considerable disparity between

Focuses on the inequality or imbalance between two things.

FAQs

How to use "a sharp distinction between" in a sentence?

Use "a sharp distinction between" to highlight a clear and significant difference between two things. For example, "The author draws "a sharp distinction between" the protagonist's past and present lives."

What can I say instead of "a sharp distinction between"?

You can use alternatives like "a clear demarcation between", "a marked contrast between", or "a significant difference between depending on the context.

Is it better to use "a sharp distinction between" or "a subtle difference between"?

The choice depends on the context. Use "a sharp distinction between" when the difference is obvious and significant. Use "a subtle difference between" when the difference is less noticeable and requires closer examination.

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

"A sharp distinction between" implies a clear, easily recognizable difference. "A general difference between" suggests there are some dissimilarities, but they may not be as clear or significant. For example, there is "a sharp distinction between" fact and fiction, but only a general difference between similar fictional characters.