distinct meaning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinct meaning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the clarity or uniqueness of a definition or interpretation of a word, phrase, or concept. Example: "In this context, the term 'freedom' has a distinct meaning that differs from its general usage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

New research reveals these cultural groups are genetically distinct, meaning culture has shaped their evolution.

The Guardian - Opinion

Each term, however, has a distinct meaning that carries different international obligations and consequences.

The Guardian

I find a formalisation to have different levels depending on a distinct meaning of the term "law".

Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence

To doubt or question the truth of this event is to doubt the core and distinct meaning and doctrine of the Christian religion.

SEP

Not only does the study describe the distinct meaning potentials of these two performance voices, but it also represents a successful attempt to integrate paralanguage within the theory of SFL.

Functional Linguistics

Second, a distinct meaning based on 'external' was folded into the neologism 'E-language' to suggest criticism of any view that conceives of a natural language as a public, intersubjectively accessible system used by a community of people (often millions of them spread across different countries).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

For example, the word mean can assume the distinct meanings of "average", "nasty", and "indicate".

Plosone

Those distinct meanings are preserved in the language of most state constitutions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Similarly, a Chinese horn is capable of at least ten distinct meanings.

The New Yorker

Those (to a foreign eye) tiny differences give them distinct meanings.

The Economist

In the context of the Russian Revolution, the term "civil war" had two distinct meanings.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "distinct meaning", ensure the context clearly establishes the contrast or differentiation you intend to highlight. Provide specific examples to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "distinct meaning" automatically conveys a clear contrast. Always contextualize the phrase with clarifying details to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinct meaning" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "distinct" modifies the noun "meaning". It signifies a specific, clear, and differentiated interpretation of a term or concept, as supported by Ludwig AI. The phrase describes attributes in a specific sense.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "distinct meaning" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to emphasize the unique and clear interpretation of a term or concept. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is commonly found in scientific and news contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure that the context provides sufficient detail to clarify the intended differentiation and avoid ambiguity. Remember, while alternatives such as "unique meaning" or "specific meaning" exist, "distinct meaning" itself is a strong and effective choice for highlighting clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evident meaning

Focuses on the clarity and obviousness of the meaning.

discrete meaning

Emphasizes the separate and individual nature of the meaning.

independent meaning

Highlights that the meaning stands alone and doesn't rely on other factors.

differentiated meaning

Focuses on how the meaning is distinguished from other meanings.

unique meaning

Stresses the singularity and unmatched character of the meaning.

well defined meaning

Emphasizes the clarity and precision of the meaning.

disparate meaning

Highlights the differences and lack of similarity between meanings.

substantial meaning

Suggests the meaning has considerable importance or depth.

distinguishing meaning

Focuses on the role of the meaning in setting something apart.

segregated meaning

Implies the meaning is separated or isolated from others.

FAQs

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

You can use "distinct meaning" to emphasize that a term or concept has a particular and unique definition in a given context. For example, "In legal contexts, the term 'domicile' has a "distinct meaning" from 'residence'".

What's the difference between "distinct meaning" and "different meaning"?

"Distinct meaning" emphasizes the uniqueness and clarity of a particular meaning, while "different meaning" simply indicates a contrast or variation. Something with a "distinct meaning" stands out more sharply than something with just a "different meaning".

What can I say instead of "distinct meaning"?

Alternatives include "unique meaning", "specific meaning", or "particular significance" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very distinct meaning"?

While not strictly redundant, "very distinct meaning" can often be streamlined to just "distinct meaning" for conciseness, as the latter already implies a high degree of clarity and separation. However, adding "very" can further emphasize the differentiation if needed.