an obvious distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an obvious distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when highlighting a clear and easily recognizable difference between two or more things. Example: "There is an obvious distinction between the two theories, which makes it easier to understand their implications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

There is an obvious distinction, however.

The Economist

Now, this is an obvious distinction and an important distinction.

The Washington Post

20 Even on the basis of Justice REHNQUIST's opinion, however, there is an obvious distinction between Calvert and this case.

Cornell University

Most fishes show an obvious distinction between the main bulk of white swimming muscle and a narrow strip of red muscle along the side of the body.

Britannica

There is nothing to be gained from tolerating defects on the production line or mistakes in the operating theatre.This might sound like an obvious distinction.

The Economist

The president also drew an obvious distinction with Mr. Romney, after accusing him of dishonesty in tying the Obama administration's bailout of the auto industry to jobs lost to China.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

No method identified a group with clearly higher use – the figures indicate a continuum of risk, not any obvious distinction between facilities with higher or lower use.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Perhaps in our study a comparable and a more obvious distinction between products should have been made.

BMC Public Health

A further obvious distinction is to have a test of maximum practical pressure differential.

Solid-Liquid Separation

His journey also illuminates a less obvious distinction in how people travel.

Huffington Post

COMMENT: "I would make a more obvious distinction between the manual curation efforts and the development of the NER and relation detection tools, for instance by placing the first 3 sections of Methods in a different "Data curation" section".

F1000Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ this phrase when introducing a point that is self-evident or widely understood, setting the stage for further elaboration or analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "an obvious distinction" when the difference is already heavily implied or clear from the context. Overusing it can make your writing sound patronizing or redundant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an obvious distinction" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI examples show it introduces a point of contrast, setting up further discussion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an obvious distinction" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to highlight clear differences. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. While effective for simplifying comparisons, it should be used judiciously to avoid redundancy. Alternatives such as "a clear difference" or "a noticeable difference" may offer nuanced variations. Overall, it serves as a useful tool for clarifying understanding in written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear difference

Focuses on the clarity of the difference, rather than it being immediately apparent.

a marked contrast

Emphasizes the degree to which the items differ.

a noticeable difference

Highlights the ease with which the difference can be observed.

a distinct separation

Stresses the separateness of the items being compared.

a clear demarcation

Suggests a precise boundary or line differentiating the items.

a plain divergence

Highlights the act of moving in different directions or differing opinions.

an easily seen difference

Focuses on the visual aspect of the difference.

a significant disparity

Indicates that the difference is substantial or important.

a palpable contrast

Emphasizes that the contrast is so evident that it can almost be felt.

a straightforward difference

Highlights the simplicity and ease of understanding the difference.

FAQs

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

You can use "an obvious distinction" to point out a clear difference between two or more things. For example: "There is "an obvious distinction" between the two approaches, making one clearly more efficient.".

What are some alternatives to "an obvious distinction"?

Alternatives include "a clear difference", "a marked contrast", or "a noticeable difference", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to point out "an obvious distinction"?

No, pointing out "an obvious distinction" is most effective when it sets the stage for further analysis or to clarify understanding. Overusing it when the difference is already evident can be redundant.

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

"An obvious distinction" highlights a clear and easily noticeable difference, while "a subtle difference" refers to a difference that is not immediately apparent and requires closer examination.