distinct line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinct line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a clear or noticeable separation between two things, such as ideas, categories, or physical objects. Example: "There is a distinct line between professional and personal conduct in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

General writing

Technical writing

Creative writing

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"At the same time, we expect many firms to look carefully at their strategy, focusing on whether they should maintain a sustainable presence in each distinct line of legal service, or specialise in more profitable and distinctive areas of legal expertise.

BBC

There was a distinct line between "going out" and not "going out".

The New York Times - Magazine

In Detroit, after all, there has long been a distinct line between owners and workers.

The New York Times

A tree diagram for species makes clear sense; each branch in the diagram represents a distinct line of creatures.

The New York Times - Books

When the gallery lights are on, the top edge of the box casts a distinct line across the drawing.

The New York Times

Like many entrepreneurs in the Valley, Glass created no distinct line between his work and personal life.

The New York Times - Magazine

Each red circle is a distinct line of latitude and represents a 30-minute increase or decrease in daylight.

The Washington Post

Underlying the apparently objective coverage of the camp is a distinct line in sneeriness and a barely concealed incitement to apoplexy – look!

The Guardian - Opinion

But even some within the scientific community are questioning whether these cross-species creations are blurring what should be a distinct line between human and animal.

MIT Technology Review

The song's only reliably distinct line is the repeated query "Where the fuck did Monday go?", which adds to the overall sense of confusion conveyed by Blackstar.

Independent

This unfortunate bit of naming your newspaper has employed further blurs what should be a distinct line between religioethnic identity and political proclivity.Adam Schwartz.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "distinct line" when you want to emphasize a clear and easily recognizable separation or boundary. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "distinct line" in situations where the separation is not truly clear or easily definable. Overusing it in abstract or vague contexts can weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinct line" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "distinct" modifies the noun "line". It indicates a clear and easily identifiable separation or boundary. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

24%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "distinct line" is a versatile and commonly used expression in English to denote a clear separation or boundary. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts. Analysis of example sentences reveals its frequent use in News & Media, and Science, with a neutral formality level. When writing, it's best to use "distinct line" to describe easily recognizable separations, but avoid overuse in vague contexts. Alternatives such as "clear boundary" or "sharp contrast" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Overall, "distinct line" remains a reliable and effective way to express clear demarcation in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clear boundary

Emphasizes the demarcation aspect, highlighting a defined border.

sharp contrast

Highlights the noticeable difference between two elements.

evident separation

Focuses on the visibility and obviousness of the division.

marked division

Underscores that the division is clearly indicated or noticeable.

discernible border

Highlights that the border can be easily recognized.

well-defined limit

Suggests a boundary that is precise and unambiguous.

unmistakable demarcation

Emphasizes that the separation is clear and cannot be confused.

pronounced difference

Stresses the significant degree of variance between two things.

palpable distinction

Indicates that the difference is easily perceived or felt.

obvious delineation

Focuses on the clarity and ease with which the boundary can be identified.

FAQs

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

You can use "distinct line" to describe a clear separation or boundary, such as "There is a "distinct line" between right and wrong" or "The painting features a "distinct line" separating the sky and the sea".

What are some alternatives to "distinct line"?

Some alternatives to "distinct line" include "clear boundary", "sharp contrast", or "evident separation", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "distinct line" or "clear line"?

Both "distinct line" and "clear line" are acceptable, but "distinct line" often implies a more pronounced or noticeable separation. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "distinct line" and "fine line"?

"Distinct line" implies a clear and obvious separation, whereas "fine line" suggests a subtle or difficult-to-perceive difference. They have nearly opposite meanings and uses. For instance, "There's a "distinct line" between confidence and arrogance", in contrast with "There's a "fine line" between love and hate".