be distinctive for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be distinctive for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is characterized by a particular quality or feature that sets it apart from others. Example: "The region is known to be distinctive for its unique geological formations that attract tourists from around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

But the police units assigned to cover prominent politicians seem to be distinctive for what can often become an explicit tension between loyalty and duty.

The New York Times

One thing that could be distinctive for when Facebook app starts doing their own.

TechCrunch

Hence, the simple linear rescaling does not work and the latency maps are found to be distinctive for every neuron.

Plosone

A central difference between the two drugs is that only the ribo analog exerts downregulation of RNA on day 2. All RNA species are downregulated, but this appears to be distinctive for small RNA species such as miRNAs and tRNAs.

Plosone

This may reflect differences in linkage disequilibrium (LD) between the genetic variants in populations of European and African ancestry [17], as well as the effects of other as yet uncharacterized gene-gene or gene-environment interactions that may be distinctive for each racial group.

Plosone

For each crystal, these two effects may be distinctive, for its microenvironment in vivo may be unique.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The evening's three dances were distinctive for their charm and quiet theatrical imagination.

The New York Times - Arts

Rufus is distinctive for his triangular eyes and football-shaped head.

The New York Times - Sports

This performance was distinctive for restoring the standard cuts made by Tchaikovsky's student Alexander Siloti.

The New York Times - Arts

Wright's surfing is distinctive for her exquisite barrel riding and physical courage.

The Guardian - Sport

Horn & Hardart Automats were distinctive for dispensing food from little metal compartments.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be distinctive for", ensure that the quality or feature you are highlighting genuinely sets the subject apart in a meaningful way. Avoid using it for trivial or common attributes.

Common error

Avoid using "be distinctive for" to describe qualities that are subjective or not easily verifiable. For instance, stating that a restaurant is "be distinctive for" its 'amazing atmosphere' is less impactful than specifying what makes the atmosphere unique, such as its live jazz music or historical setting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be distinctive for" functions as a linking verb followed by an adjective and a preposition, serving to attribute a particular characteristic or feature that makes something stand out. Ludwig AI confirms the correct usage of this phrase in its examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be distinctive for" is used to point out specific, noteworthy characteristics that set something apart. Ludwig AI analysis confirms it's grammatically sound, though relatively rare. It is most frequently found in news, scientific, and encyclopedia contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure the highlighted attribute genuinely distinguishes the subject and avoid using it for vague or subjective qualities. Alternatives like "be known for" or "be characterized by" may be suitable depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be characterized by

Highlights the defining traits or features, emphasizing description over uniqueness.

be notable for

Indicates that something is worthy of attention due to a specific quality.

be defined by

Focuses on the essence or core characteristics, suggesting a fundamental aspect.

be known for

Expresses a common or recognized quality, shifting the focus from inherent distinction to public perception.

be remarkable for

Emphasizes the noteworthiness or unusual nature of a particular aspect.

be recognized for

Shifts the focus to external acknowledgment of specific qualities.

be unique in

Focuses on unparalleled qualities, differing from simply being 'distinctive'.

be identified by

Highlights how something is recognized, rather than just being different.

be set apart by

Emphasizes separation from others due to specific characteristics, adding a competitive nuance.

stand out due to

Highlights the act of differing from the norm because of a particular attribute.

FAQs

How can I use "be distinctive for" in a sentence?

Use "be distinctive for" to highlight a particular quality or characteristic that sets something apart. For example, "The region is "be distinctive for" its unique geological formations".

What are some alternatives to "be distinctive for"?

Alternatives include "be known for", "be characterized by", or "be notable for depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey".

Is it better to say "be distinctive for" or "be known for"?

"Be distinctive for" emphasizes a unique, inherent quality, while "be known for" highlights public perception or recognition. Choose based on whether you want to stress intrinsic difference or widespread acknowledgment.

What is the difference between "be distinctive for" and "be unique for"?

"Be unique for" implies being the only one of its kind in a specific aspect, whereas "be distinctive for" suggests having particular qualities that set it apart, even if it's not entirely unique. "Unique" is absolute, while "distinctive" is relative.