a special distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a special distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a unique honor or recognition that sets someone or something apart from others. Example: "She received a special distinction for her outstanding contributions to the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Mr. Ferguson has a special distinction.

The New York Times

This school also has a special distinction.

The New York Times

If there is a special distinction to those of Warsh's speeches and articles I've read, it's this: he has had a habit of saying and writing things that are supposed to be profound, but say nothing at all.

The New York Times

But Mr. Ferguson has a special distinction: He was the first analyst Mr. Ackman hired at Pershing Square, and was the first investment team partner at the hedge fund.

The New York Times

The Thrashers started the season with a special distinction: they had five black players on their roster, tying the 2000-1 Edmonton Oilers for the most black players on one N.H.L. team.

The New York Times - Sports

Under the empire, the toga acquired a special distinction because of its unique and complex method of draping and because, as a note of rank, its wearing was restricted to Roman citizens.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Dressed in a gray pinstriped suit and a purple tie, eyeglasses framing a face of no special distinction, Mr. Black looks less like a guy who tells jokes for a living than a midcareer accountant nursing a peptic ulcer.

The New York Times

Mr. Brown writes, "We know now that Velázquez, contrary to his usual practice, made a preliminary study of a person of no special distinction to appear in one of his most ambitious paintings".

The New York Times - Arts

Together they are reminders that Velázquez's brush treated royals and "a person of no special distinction" equally, which makes "Portrait of a Man" only more perplexing.

The New York Times - Arts

It's midafternoon, and the only food on offer is an Indian buffet of no special distinction.

The New York Times

It seems churlish to single out the journalist in such an all-round memorable turkey as Killing Me Softly, but she had the special distinction of allegedly being a Guardian one.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a special distinction" to emphasize a unique and positive attribute that sets something or someone apart. Ensure the context clearly explains the nature of the distinction.

Common error

Avoid using "a special distinction" when describing common or unremarkable attributes. The phrase should be reserved for genuinely notable and unique qualities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a special distinction" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a predicate nominative or an object of a preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a special distinction" is a phrase used to highlight a unique and noteworthy quality or achievement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and it's frequently found in news media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. While it's crucial to use it judiciously, reserving it for truly remarkable attributes, it serves as a valuable tool for emphasizing what sets something or someone apart. Alternative phrases like "a unique characteristic" or "an exceptional quality" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a unique characteristic

Focuses on the distinct and unparalleled nature of the feature.

a distinctive feature

Highlights a characteristic that is easily recognizable and different.

an exceptional quality

Highlights a superior trait or feature.

a noteworthy honor

Emphasizes the recognition or respect received.

a remarkable attribute

Focuses on a noteworthy characteristic that sets something apart.

a notable achievement

Emphasizes accomplishment and success.

a singular trait

Stresses the uniqueness and individuality of the characteristic.

an extraordinary accomplishment

Highlights the exceptional nature of the achievement.

a prestigious recognition

Stresses the high status and honor associated with the recognition.

a mark of excellence

Focuses on the superior quality and high standards achieved.

FAQs

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

You can use "a special distinction" to highlight a unique quality or honor. For example, "She received "a special distinction" for her research in the field of quantum physics".

What phrases are similar to "a special distinction"?

Similar phrases include "a unique characteristic", "an exceptional quality", or "a noteworthy honor". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "a special distinction" or "a special honor"?

While both convey a sense of recognition, "a special distinction" often implies a unique characteristic or achievement, whereas "a special honor" primarily denotes respect or admiration.

Can "a special distinction" be used to describe a negative attribute?

Generally, "a special distinction" is used in a positive or neutral context. To describe a negative attribute, consider using phrases like "a unique problem" or "a notable disadvantage".