an important distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an important distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when highlighting a significant difference between two or more concepts, ideas, or items. Example: "In discussing the effects of climate change, it is crucial to make an important distinction between weather and climate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

That's an important distinction.

The New York Times

It's an important distinction.

The New York Times

It was an important distinction.

The New York Times - Sports

That is an important distinction.

The New Yorker

"We think that's an important distinction".

The New York Times

This was an important distinction, he explained.

The New York Times - Magazine

But let me suggest an important distinction.

The New York Times

Religion was an important distinction.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Which is an important distinction.

The Guardian - Books

Why is this an important distinction?

The New York Times

To them, it's an important distinction.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an important distinction", ensure that the context clearly indicates what two or more elements are being compared. This will enhance the phrase’s impact and relevance.

Common error

Avoid using "an important distinction" when the difference is trivial or self-evident. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound less credible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an important distinction" functions as a discourse marker, signaling to the reader or listener that the speaker is about to highlight a significant difference between two or more concepts, ideas, or entities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an important distinction" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize significant differences across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability, particularly in news, scientific, and formal settings. To enhance clarity and avoid overuse, consider alternatives like "a key difference" or "a notable contrast". By understanding its function and appropriate usage, writers can effectively guide their audience to grasp critical distinctions and nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a key difference

Emphasizes the significance of the difference.

a crucial difference

Stresses that the difference is essential.

a vital difference

Highlights that the difference is critical or necessary.

a clear distinction

Highlights the clarity and ease of perceiving the difference.

a meaningful difference

Indicates that the difference is not trivial.

a notable contrast

Highlights a difference that is easily observed.

a relevant distinction

Suggests the distinction matters in a particular context.

a telling contrast

Implies the contrast reveals something important.

a significant divergence

Indicates a point where things move apart or differ.

a sharp contrast

Emphasizes the degree of difference.

FAQs

How can I use "an important distinction" in a sentence?

You can use "an important distinction" to highlight a significant difference between two things. For example: "There's an important distinction between being frugal and being miserly."

What's a good alternative to "an important distinction"?

Alternatives include "a key difference", "a notable contrast", or "a significant divergence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "an important distinction" and "a subtle difference"?

Yes, "an important distinction" suggests a difference that has significant implications, whereas "a subtle difference" implies a difference that is not immediately obvious and may have minor consequences.

When is it appropriate to use "an important distinction" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "an important distinction" when you need to emphasize a difference that is crucial for understanding a concept, argument, or situation. It helps readers grasp the significance of the contrast being made.