blurred distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "blurred distinction" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which something which previously had clearly defined differences or boundaries has become less clear or distinguishable. For example, "The blurry line between the upper and middle classes has created a blurred distinction between the two groups."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But what about the now blurred distinction between the Sunday Review and The New York Times Magazine?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Taking a marketplace approach to education, Archey points to the world economy and the way the Internet has blurred distinctions, making the world seem smaller and more interdependent.

Forbes

Much like the films' blurred distinctions between reality and make-believe, the public has hazily viewed The Matrix Reloaded as a financial failure.

Forbes

The French symbolist painter blurred distinctions between memory, imagination and delirium with a sort of magical ease.

Huffington Post

Although there are still significant differences between Western and Asian cultures, globalisation and advancement of telecommunication have blurred distinctions significantly over the past two decades.

BMC Health Services Research

I don't think so, and my reasoning has to do with the ever blurring distinction between those two categories.

Forbes

The Blackwood is ever blurring distinctions.

The New York Times

Marshes blur distinctions between drilling on land and at sea.

The New York Times

Some bioartists foster interdisciplinary relationships that blur distinctions between art and science.

Trends in Biotechnology

People mingle with those with masks, blurring distinctions of status and conferring anonymity.

The Economist

Blurring distinctions is an Italian art form, after all, even literally.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "blurred distinction", ensure the context clearly identifies the two elements that were once distinct.

Common error

Avoid using "blurred distinction" excessively in highly formal or academic writing where more precise language might be appropriate. Consider alternatives like "indistinct boundary" or "vague demarcation" for added clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "blurred distinction" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It describes a state where the boundaries or differences between two or more things are no longer clearly defined. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "blurred distinction" effectively describes a situation where a previously clear difference has become less defined. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various domains. It is common in news, science, and academic contexts, signaling its versatility in describing abstract concepts. When writing, be mindful of the context and consider alternative such as "indistinct boundary" or "fuzzy difference" for precise language. Be careful using this phrase too often in formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

indistinct boundary

Focuses on the lack of a clear dividing line between two things.

vague demarcation

Emphasizes the lack of precise separation or definition.

fuzzy difference

Highlights the lack of sharpness in the distinction.

reduced clarity

Directly addresses the diminished clearness of a distinction.

obscured differentiation

Focuses on the act of making the distinction less visible or noticeable.

eroded separation

Highlights the gradual disappearance of a distinction.

diminished contrast

Emphasizes the reduced difference between two things.

intermingled aspects

Highlights how different elements are mixed together making distinctions less relevant.

converging characteristics

Focuses on how different things become more alike or similar over time.

blended lines

Emphasizes how two things mix so well that their boundaries become unclear.

FAQs

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

You can use "blurred distinction" to describe a situation where the difference between two things has become less clear. For example, "The internet has created a "blurred distinction" between work and leisure."

What's the difference between "unclear distinction" and "blurred distinction"?

"Unclear distinction" suggests a lack of clarity, while "blurred distinction" implies that a previously clear difference has become less defined.

What are some alternatives to "blurred distinction"?

Alternatives include "indistinct boundary", "vague demarcation", or "fuzzy difference", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "blurred distinction" appropriate for academic writing?

Yes, "blurred distinction" is acceptable for academic writing, but consider using more formal alternatives if greater precision is required.