but distinctly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but distinctly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a clear difference or separation between two ideas or concepts. Example: "The painting was vibrant, but distinctly different from the artist's earlier works."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A well-meaning one, but distinctly porcine all the same.

Independent

He has made it all Pittsburgh but distinctly Tomlin.

The New York Times

He was brash and brave, but distinctly unmilitary.

The New York Times

"A nice book," Mr. McKeon says, smiling but distinctly unamused.

The New York Times

Landis looked at the X-ray intently, faintly pleased at this revelation but distinctly unsurprised.

The New York Times - Magazine

As she picked up my cup, I heard her murmur, quietly but distinctly, "I've been spitting in yours, too".

The New Yorker

He, too, wore a black turban and glasses — in his case, thick glasses over weak but distinctly friendly eyes.

The New Yorker

That section is next to, but distinctly different from, Section 501(c)(3), which defines charitable organizations.

The New York Times

Lately, many people are hearing an echo — faintly perhaps but distinctly audible — of the stagflation of the 1970s.

The New York Times

The result is an exhilarating but distinctly silly approximation of a key chapter in the history of American literature.

The Guardian - Film

He, too, wore a black turban and glasses in his case, thick glasses over weak but distinctly friendly eyes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but distinctly" to highlight a contrast where the difference is not just present, but easily perceived or understood. This adds emphasis to the distinction.

Common error

Avoid using "but distinctly" when a simple "but" is sufficient. Overuse can make your writing sound stilted. Reserve it for situations where the distinction is significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but distinctly" functions as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. It connects two contrasting ideas while emphasizing the clarity or obviousness of the distinction between them. Ludwig shows its role in highlighting differences across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but distinctly" is a grammatically correct and frequently used conjunction phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and high frequency. It serves to emphasize a clear and easily noticeable contrast between two ideas, functioning as a conjunctive adverbial phrase. Common in news, media and scientific writing, it maintains a neutral register that can sometimes lean towards more formal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the contrast is significant enough to warrant the added emphasis. Consider alternatives like "yet clearly" or "however clearly" for similar emphasis with subtle tonal variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet clearly

Replaces "but" with "yet" maintaining contrast and emphasizing clarity.

though clearly

Similar to "yet clearly" but using "though" for the contrast.

however clearly

Substitutes "but" with "however", adding a slightly more formal tone.

albeit clearly

Uses "albeit" to introduce a qualification that is still clear.

but noticeably

Focuses on the difference being easily observed.

but markedly

Highlights a significant or obvious difference.

but evidently

Emphasizes that the difference is apparent.

yet noticeably

Combines contrast and ease of observation.

however noticeably

A more formal alternative emphasizing observable difference.

though noticeably

Uses "though" to introduce an easily observed contrast.

FAQs

How can I use "but distinctly" in a sentence?

Use "but distinctly" to emphasize a clear and noticeable contrast between two ideas or elements. For example, "The initial plan was ambitious, but distinctly unrealistic".

What are some alternatives to "but distinctly"?

Alternatives include "yet clearly", "however clearly", or "though clearly", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is there a difference in formality between "but distinctly" and its alternatives?

"But distinctly" is generally neutral. "However clearly" introduces a slightly more formal tone, while options like "yet clearly" maintain a similar level of formality.

When should I use "but distinctly" instead of just "but"?

Use "but distinctly" when you want to emphasize that the contrast is not just present, but also easily noticeable or clearly defined. A simple "but" is sufficient when the contrast is less pronounced.