a thin distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a thin distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a subtle or minor difference between two concepts, ideas, or situations. Example: "There is a thin distinction between being polite and being insincere in social interactions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

For some, that's a thin distinction.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Because of this thin distinction between criminal and corrupt funds, approximately $40 billion in corrupt funds is washed through American banks each year.

The New York Times - Magazine

On the other hand, the Masters' initiative to expand the sport reflects a complex, razor-thin distinction between bringing fresh players into the game and inviting new members into the club.

The New York Times - Sports

Polyethylene makes fine, tough films; there is no sharp distinction between a thin extrusion, useful for a wrapping film, and thicker products used for nonbreakable bottles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It has the design distinction of a thin elastic waistband sewn into a tunnel of cotton, rather than one of those two-inch-wide billboards blaring the designer's name in a way that can be interpreted only as a dastardly scheme to achieve market domination via brand impressions made through the pornography and plumbing industries.

The New York Times

This distinction can be a thin line, so to start with small, simple shows of affection.

WikiHow

The reader is also encouraged to consider the "thin" vs. "thick" work of art distinction in S. Davies 1991 in light of whether creative additions to a "thin" work can "thicken" it or whether a different ontological framework for dance works of art is needed and, if so, why).

SEP

Choose a thin fabric.

WikiHow

Make a thin layer.

WikiHow

Draw a thin rectangle.

WikiHow

Make a thin sauce.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a thin distinction" when you want to emphasize the subtlety of a difference, but be sure the difference, however subtle, is still meaningful in the context.

Common error

Avoid using "a thin distinction" when the difference is actually quite substantial. This can mislead your audience and weaken your argument. If the nuance is great, prefer phrases like "notable difference" or "significant variation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a thin distinction" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a subtle difference or nuance between two concepts, ideas, or entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a thin distinction" is a noun phrase used to describe a subtle difference between two things. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. Its frequency is classified as common. The phrase is often found in news media, scientific discourse, and encyclopedic explanations. When employing this phrase, ensure that the subtlety is genuine and relevant to avoid misleading your audience. Alternative phrases like "a subtle difference" or "a fine line" 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 subtle difference

Emphasizes the delicacy and noteworthiness of the contrast.

a fine line

Suggests a precarious or easily crossed boundary.

a marginal difference

Focuses on the smallness and potential insignificance of the variance.

a delicate distinction

Highlights the need for careful consideration and precision.

a hair's breadth difference

Underscores how exceptionally minute and easy to miss the change or separation is.

a technicality

Suggests the difference is based on a strict interpretation of rules.

a semantic difference

Indicates a contrast in the meaning or interpretation of words.

a theoretical distinction

Emphasizes a variance that exists more in concept than in practice.

a nuanced difference

Highlights the complexity and subtlety of the variation.

an insignificant distinction

Downplays the importance or impact of the difference.

FAQs

How to use "a thin distinction" in a sentence?

You can use "a thin distinction" to point out subtle differences between two things. For example: "There is "a thin distinction" between confidence and arrogance."

What can I say instead of "a thin distinction"?

You can use alternatives like "a subtle difference", "a fine line", or "a marginal difference" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "a thin distinction" and "a subtle difference"?

Both phrases highlight small differences, but ""a thin distinction"" suggests the difference might be easily overlooked, while "a subtle difference" focuses more on the nuance.

Is it always correct to use "a thin distinction"?

While grammatically correct, using ""a thin distinction"" may not be appropriate if the difference is substantial. In such cases, consider using phrases like "significant difference" or "notable variation".