a specific distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

"a specific distinction" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the difference between two or more things. For example: "This report outlines a specific distinction between the two presidential candidates."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Numerous dental differences in the molars (smaller central fovea) and premolars (smaller distal basin and less slanted protoconid on the P3; P4 with a smaller talonid basin, a lower mesiodistal∶buccolingual ratio) support a specific distinction between MFI-K171 and the material assigned to K. chiangmuanensis and justify the erection of a new species name for MFI-K171.

Plosone

Note that we do not make a specific distinction between surround and mask stimuli here, as the surround may have intruded on some occasions into the neuron's summation area.

European Journal of Neuroscience

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

If we talk about man and about bull, we cannot make any specific distinction" (Ibn Bâjja 2002a, Ḥayawân, p. 76, ll. 7 9).

SEP

S5 was clinically diagnosed as having an ASD, without a more specific distinction.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

Every such status is essential and allows a highly specific distinction concerning the methylation pattern: active promoters for example, are enriched in trimethylated H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) residues, whereas enhancer elements are enriched in monomethylated H3K4 residues [ 31].

Clinical Epigenetics

This analysis includes all data from papers where there wasn't a more specific distinction between types of memory characteristic to be examined (see Additional file 1: Table S1 and Figure 2).

BMC Psychiatry

In contrast to the high divergence of the unidentified lineages, the comparatively small genetic distance between T. villosus and T. alpicolus indicated a questionable specific distinction between these two taxa.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

In order to do so, the following three questions will be answered: 1 Are the items of four questionnaires on emotional and behavioural problems suitable for an IRT-based CAT and, if so, which are the parameters (item locations) of the individual items, to be used in a CAT? 2 Which cut-off point results in a sensitive and specific distinction?

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Gibson created the term mirror-world to acknowledge a locational-specific distinction in a manufactured object that emerged from a parallel development process, for example opposite-side driving or varied electrical outlets.

Wikipedia

Using two-marker gene sets, a specific FNAB distinction of benign and malignant tumours was achieved with negative predictive values (NPV) up to 0.78 and positive predictive values (PPV) up to 0.84.

British Journal of Cancer

Other guidelines, such as National Comprehensive Cancer Network [ 12], have made no specific distinction between different PALB2 mutations but do raise a general caution around the interpretation of testing for mutations in PALB2 and other "moderate penetrance" breast cancer predisposition genes, especially as part of panel tests.

Breast Cancer Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a specific distinction" when you want to highlight a clear and identifiable difference between two or more things. For example, in comparing scientific theories or business strategies.

Common error

Avoid using "a specific distinction" repeatedly in close proximity. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Vary your language by using synonyms like "notable difference" or "clear differentiation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific distinction" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a particular difference or separation between two or more entities. It is used to emphasize clarity and precision in differentiating between items, ideas, or concepts, as shown in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

66%

Encyclopedias

17%

News & Media

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a specific distinction" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize a clear and identifiable difference. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Though not exceedingly common, it finds its place in formal writing, scientific discourse, and analytical reports. The phrase serves to highlight key differentiating factors and ensure clarity. While synonyms exist, varying the language can enhance writing impact. This phrase is most frequently found in scientific, encyclopedic, and news sources, indicating its formal tone and analytical purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a definite distinction

Emphasizes the certainty and clarity of the difference.

a clear differentiation

Focuses on clarity in the act of distinguishing.

a particular difference

Emphasizes the distinctiveness of the difference.

a precise demarcation

Highlights accuracy and defined boundaries in the separation.

a notable contrast

Stresses the conspicuous nature of the difference.

a marked separation

Indicates a clear and evident division.

a significant divergence

Highlights the importance and extent of the difference.

a characteristic feature

Focuses on the unique and identifying element.

a unique attribute

Stresses the singularity and special quality.

a special quality

Highlights the unique aspect.

FAQs

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

You can use "a specific distinction" to emphasize a clear and identifiable difference. For example: "The report outlines "a specific distinction" between the two proposed methods."

What's an alternative to using "a specific distinction"?

Alternatives include "a clear differentiation", "a notable contrast", or "a marked separation", depending on the desired emphasis.

Is it better to say 'specific difference' or "a specific distinction"?

While "specific difference" is also correct, "a specific distinction" often implies a more formally recognized or defined difference. Consider the context to choose the most appropriate phrase.

In what contexts is "a specific distinction" most suitable?

"A specific distinction" is suitable in formal writing, scientific reports, or when outlining well-defined differences. It is less common in informal conversation.