a unique distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a unique distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a special or singular quality that sets someone or something apart from others. Example: "Her ability to connect with people on a personal level gives her a unique distinction in the field of social work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

It will be a unique distinction, and for free.

The New Yorker

But for a few months, he held what might be a unique distinction, being both a professional filmmaker and a New Jersey judge.

The New York Times

But Dr. Brown has a unique distinction: He was, for a few hours in 2005, the only person on Planet Earth to know that the standard nine-planet solar system model was going to require rejiggering.

The New York Times - Books

Ms. Portman can now claim what appears to be a unique distinction: She may be the only Golden Globe-winning actress to simulate sex on screen with two former members of the cast of "That '70s Show".

The New York Times

While merchant ships and cargo containers bearing the Hanjin name traverse the globe, Mr. Cho was proudest of his success in building Korean Air Lines into a major international carrier with a unique distinction: it is the only international airline that has its own manufacturing division.

The New York Times

"We spent a lot of time with the local landmarks commission to make sure that the designs were historically contextual," Mr. Meier said, "and to ensure the neighborhood was true to its historic roots, while at the same time ensuring that the community has a unique distinction and quality suggestive of the new chapter commencing in this neighborhood".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

But perhaps there needs to be a more unique distinction from the Chances to the struggling Soundcloud Artist who really is 'independent' of significant support, i.e. Major-Indie vs. Indie (although, I can foresee that becoming quite political itself).

Huffington Post

TF1 calls him "la coqueluche de Hollywood," using a word that has the unique distinction of being a homonym for "heartthrob" and "whooping cough".

The New Yorker

The television station TF1 deemed him "la coqueluche de Hollywood," using a word that has the unique distinction of being a homonym for "heartthrob" and "whooping cough".

The New Yorker

They were also the shop in which she served her apprenticeship for "The Blue Light," a film with the unique distinction of having impressed not only Hitler but Chaplin.

The New Yorker

At the Loomis Sayles Bond Fund, Daniel Fuss holds the unique distinction of an A+ up-market ranking and a B down-market ranking from FORBES.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a unique distinction" to highlight qualities that genuinely set something apart from others. Avoid using it for commonplace attributes.

Common error

Avoid using "a unique distinction" when a simpler descriptor would suffice. Overusing it can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a unique distinction" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to attribute a specific quality to something or someone, setting it apart from others.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Encyclopedias

18%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a unique distinction" is a grammatically sound and functionally versatile expression used to highlight the exceptional qualities that set something or someone apart. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While not overly common, its usage is prevalent across diverse contexts, including news media, encyclopedias, and business communications. When employing this phrase, it is recommended to ensure it accurately reflects a truly singular attribute and to avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Consider alternatives such as ""an exceptional quality"" or ""a distinctive trait"" for nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a one-of-a-kind quality

Emphasizes the rarity and special nature of the quality.

a distinctive trait

Highlights a characteristic that sets something apart.

an exclusive characteristic

Suggests that the trait is possessed only by a select few or one.

a singular feature

Stresses the uniqueness and individuality of the aspect.

an unmatched aspect

Suggests an unparalleled or unrivaled element.

an unparalleled feature

Indicates that the feature is unmatched in comparison.

an exceptional quality

Highlights the high standard or merit of the characteristic.

a defining attribute

Emphasizes that the attribute is central and fundamental.

a noteworthy characteristic

Focuses on the importance of the specific trait.

a remarkable attribute

Emphasizes the noteworthiness of the quality.

FAQs

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

You can use "a unique distinction" to emphasize a quality that sets something apart. For example: "His ability to connect with people on a personal level gives him "a unique distinction" in the field of social work."

What are some alternatives to "a unique distinction"?

Alternatives include "a remarkable attribute", "an exceptional quality", or "a distinctive trait", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very unique distinction"?

Yes, saying "very unique distinction" is generally redundant because "unique" already implies one-of-a-kind. It's best to simply use "a unique distinction".

What's the difference between "a unique distinction" and "a special distinction"?

"A unique distinction" implies something is the only one of its kind, while "a special distinction" suggests something is noteworthy or significant, but not necessarily singular.