distinct fondness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinct fondness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a clear and noticeable liking or affection for something or someone. Example: "She has a distinct fondness for classical music, often attending concerts and recitals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

There are no paved roads in or out of the province, so the rebels carve dirt tracks out of the thick forest with bulldozers, changing their routes every few weeks to keep ahead of the Sudanese Air Force, who have a distinct fondness for bombing literally any vehicle they see.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

She went on to marry her castmate in 1948, and she and Davis began a nearly six-decade-long personal and artistic collaboration that earned a degree of public reverence quite distinct from the usual fatuous fondness for celebrity coupledom.

The New Yorker

I recall these authors with fondness, their names shifting with the changing of the seasons, and lending each fall their own distinct flavor.

Huffington Post

A season of so many highs but a couple of distinct lows, played out in seven different countries from early August to late May, 1986-87 will forever be remembered with both fondness and sadness.

The Guardian - Sport

Whenever we who knew him as a friend think of the emergence of virology as a distinct discipline, at the time of the first International Congresses of Virology (1968 forward), his role will be remembered with great fondness.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

That fondness shines through.

The New York Times

Their fondness for it….

The New Yorker

"AN INORDINATE fondness for beetles".

The Economist

There was fondness in it.

The New Yorker

It did not indicate fondness.

Independent

Fondness, of course; love.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider the audience's understanding of formality. "Distinct fondness" strikes a balance and is useful in diverse contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "distinct fondness" excessively in casual settings. While grammatically correct, its slightly formal tone might sound out of place in everyday conversation. Opt for simpler phrases like "really likes" or "is very fond of" in informal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinct fondness" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "distinct" modifies the noun "fondness", indicating a clear and noticeable liking or affection. This phrase is often used to highlight a specific preference.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "distinct fondness" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a clear and noticeable liking, as confirmed by Ludwig. While not very common, it is particularly suitable for contexts where a specific preference needs to be highlighted. Alternatives like "marked affection" or "strong liking" can be used depending on the desired nuance. While "distinct fondness" is appropriate in many contexts, simpler phrasing may be preferred in informal settings. The phrase is most often found in news and media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pronounced fondness

Similar to "distinct fondness", but emphasizes the degree of the fondness.

marked affection

Emphasizes the noticeable nature of the affection.

obvious affection

Highlights that the affection is easily seen or understood.

strong liking

Highlights the intensity of the preference.

unmistakable liking

Emphasizes that the liking is very clear and cannot be confused.

noticeable preference

Focuses on the clear indication of a favored choice.

special appreciation

Suggests a particular and elevated form of liking or valuing something.

clear partiality

Suggests a bias or favoritism that is easily observed.

evident inclination

Points to a leaning or tendency that is easily perceived.

palpable enthusiasm

Emphasizes a very strong and obvious excitement or interest.

FAQs

How can I use "distinct fondness" in a sentence?

You can use "distinct fondness" to describe a clear and noticeable liking for something. For example, "She has a distinct fondness for classical music." The phrase often highlights a particular preference.

What are some alternatives to "distinct fondness"?

Alternatives include "marked affection", "strong liking", or "noticeable preference", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "distinct fondness" formal or informal?

"Distinct fondness" is somewhat formal. While appropriate in many contexts, simpler phrases might be better suited for casual conversation. Consider your audience when choosing the phrase.

What's the difference between "distinct fondness" and "slight fondness"?

"Distinct fondness" implies a noticeable and clear liking, while "slight fondness" suggests a mild or subtle affection. The choice depends on the intensity of the feeling you want to express.