distinct lack of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinct lack of" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to suggest that something is missing, especially when that something is so noticeable that the absence of it is striking. For example: "There was a distinct lack of clarity in the instructions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Or rather, the distinct lack of them.

The New York Times

P15 Distinct lack of wow factor on The X Factor.

The Guardian

There is a distinct lack of urgency in this game.

The Guardian - Sport

There is a distinct lack of colouring-in or vibrancy.

The Guardian

Weak links A distinct lack of pace at the back.

The Guardian - Sport

There is a distinct lack of transparency here.

Independent

You know the sort: no carpets, distinct lack of pork scratchings, cocktails in jam jars.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But with only momentary exceptions, there is a distinct lack of command emanating from the stage.

The New York Times

There is a distinct lack of clarity after the draft's top five players, Ford said.

The New York Times - Sports

He is sanguine about the distinct lack of wealth in his industry these days.

The Guardian - Film

And so, with a clean slate and a distinct lack of red tape, work began.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "distinct lack of" to emphasize a noticeable absence or deficiency, making your statement more impactful. For instance, instead of saying "there was no enthusiasm", try "there was a distinct lack of enthusiasm" to highlight the absence.

Common error

While "distinct lack of" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal academic or business writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced vocabulary to convey the specific deficiency. For example, use "noticeable deficiency" or "significant absence" instead of repeating "distinct lack of."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinct lack of" functions as a qualifier expressing a noticeable absence or deficiency. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically correct phrase. The examples show its application across various contexts to emphasize the absence of something expected or desired.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "distinct lack of" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to highlight a noticeable absence or deficiency. Ludwig AI supports this, providing numerous examples from credible sources. Its primary function is to emphasize the absence of something, making it more impactful. While versatile, overuse in very formal contexts should be avoided, opting for more precise vocabulary. Its neutral tone allows for usage across different contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

noticeable absence of

Emphasizes the conspicuous nature of the missing element.

marked deficiency in

Highlights the inadequacy or shortage of something.

clear shortage of

Focuses on the insufficient quantity of something.

evident dearth of

Indicates a scarcity or famine-like absence of something.

obvious want of

Emphasizes the need or requirement that is not being met.

palpable absence of

Highlights that the absence is almost tangible or easily perceived.

striking inadequacy of

Underscores the significant insufficiency or unsuitability.

conspicuous insufficiency of

Draws attention to the notable lack of required amount or quality.

significant deficit of

Points out a considerable shortfall or imbalance.

remarkable scarcity of

Emphasizes the unusual or noteworthy infrequency of something.

FAQs

How can I use "distinct lack of" in a sentence?

You can use "distinct lack of" to highlight a noticeable absence or deficiency. For example, "There was a "distinct lack of" effort in the performance", or "There is a "distinct lack of" transparency here".

What are some alternatives to "distinct lack of"?

Alternatives to "distinct lack of" include "noticeable absence of", "marked deficiency in", or "clear shortage of", depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "distinct lack of" or "clear lack of"?

"Distinct lack of" emphasizes the obviousness of the absence, while "clear lack of" simply indicates that something is missing. The choice depends on the degree of emphasis you want to convey.

What does "distinct lack of" imply about the missing element?

The phrase "distinct lack of" implies that the missing element is something that would normally be expected or desired, and its absence is particularly noticeable or significant.