air of distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "air of distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It implies a sense of snobbery and superiority. For example, "The socialite had an air of distinction as she swept into the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Apartment builders thought a big marquee added an air of distinction.

The New York Times

This training imbued the once impoverished waif from Normandy with an air of distinction and refinement that would make her, as Liszt later observed, "unique of her kind".

The New York Times - Books

His Pozdynyshev has the disintegrating air of distinction you associate with debauched Nabokov heroes, of a man held together by wit and pain.

The New York Times

No matter what imposture Weyman was engaged in, he never altered his face — not even by so much as shaving off a thin, spruce mustache, which, along with expressive, bright brown eyes, an aquiline nose, a strong, solemn mouth, a shapely head, and a tall, trim figure, gave him an air of distinction that he carried with disarmingly modest grace.

The New Yorker

They are accessories that truly add an air of distinction to any look; also adds the finishing touch to both casual and formal attire.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Set in the Isle of Wight's south west, Freshwater Bay retains an air of quiet distinction with handsome Victorian villas, picturesque cottages, a historic grocer's and a thatched church – it is beside the sea, but not the seaside.

Independent

Fashion now pivots on a show of the personal and the sensitive, on feelings, values, an air of education, a sense of fine distinctions, and a great play of self-confidence and independence — on what is packaged commercially, in short, as the Quality Life.

The New Yorker

"These included air strikes and shelling as well as the conduct of particular military operations or attacks that may have violated the principles of distinction and proportionality under international humanitarian law," the report says.

BBC

They're writers of distinction.

The Guardian

Another writing mistress of distinction is Marie Presot.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Lewis was also a novelist of distinction.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "air of distinction" to subtly convey a sense of elegance or superiority. Avoid overuse, as it can sound pretentious.

Common error

Don't use "air of distinction" when you mean simply "distinctiveness". "Distinction" implies superiority or elegance, whereas "distinctiveness" simply means being unique.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "air of distinction" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. Ludwig highlights its use in describing qualities that set something apart, often with an implication of elegance or superiority.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "air of distinction" is a grammatically sound expression used to attribute a quality of elegance, sophistication, or superiority. While not overly common, its presence in reputable sources like The New York Times and The New Yorker, as highlighted by Ludwig, confirms its validity in formal and neutral registers. The analysis suggests that "air of distinction" is best employed to subtly convey a sense of refined quality. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase implies a sense of snobbery and superiority. Alternatives such as "aura of superiority" or "mark of elegance" offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts, but "air of distinction" remains a potent descriptor when aiming for a blend of elegance and inherent superiority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

aura of superiority

Replaces "distinction" with "superiority", focusing on the sense of being better than others.

mark of elegance

Shifts the focus to elegance as the defining characteristic, rather than general distinction.

quality of refinement

Highlights the polished and sophisticated aspect of the subject.

sense of class

Emphasizes the social standing and associated behaviors.

touch of sophistication

Indicates a subtle but noticeable addition of sophistication.

hint of grandeur

Suggests a slight but noticeable element of magnificence.

feeling of importance

Focuses on the perceived significance or status of the subject.

aspect of nobility

Highlights the aristocratic or noble qualities.

presence of prestige

Emphasizes the reputation and respect associated with the subject.

manner of grace

Shifts the focus to graceful behavior and deportment.

FAQs

How can I use "air of distinction" in a sentence?

You can use "air of distinction" to describe someone or something that exudes elegance, sophistication, or superiority. For example: "The hotel had an "air of distinction" with its grand lobby and impeccable service."

What are some synonyms for "air of distinction"?

Alternatives to "air of distinction" include "aura of superiority", "mark of elegance", or "quality of refinement", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "air of distinction" in formal writing?

Yes, "air of distinction" is suitable for formal writing. It adds a refined touch to descriptions but should be used judiciously to avoid sounding overly pretentious.

What's the difference between "air of distinction" and "sense of style"?

"Air of distinction" implies a more inherent quality of elegance or superiority, whereas "sense of style" refers specifically to someone's ability to dress and present themselves attractively. Someone with a "sense of style" may or may not have an "air of distinction".