distinctions between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinctions between" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing differences or variations between two or more items, concepts, or categories. Example: "The distinctions between classical and modern art are often debated among critics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Distinctions between nature and culture blur.

The New Yorker

Distinctions between design and art are eroding.

The Guardian - Books

"The distinctions between platforms have broken down.

The Guardian

But there are also important distinctions between Beacon and VillageCar.

Harvard Business Review

He prefers to make distinctions between good and bad art.

The New York Times

The forms of predication suggest important distinctions between universals.

Britannica

The interpretation emphasized the distinctions between flesh and spirit.

The New York Times

She also emphasized important distinctions between the two proceedings.

The Washington Post

Below are some helpful distinctions between the three leadership styles.

Harvard Business Review

Groff deftly troubles the distinctions between these registers.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Linguists make distinctions between different kinds of language-use.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "distinctions between" to clearly articulate the differences when comparing two or more subjects. It provides a formal and precise tone suitable for academic and professional writing.

Common error

While "distinctions between" is correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "differences" or "variations" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinctions between" functions as a prepositional phrase highlighting the differences that exist when comparing two or more entities. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "distinctions between" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to emphasize the differences when comparing two or more things. According to Ludwig, this prepositional phrase is most frequently found in news media, science, and academic sources, indicating its suitability for formal and analytical contexts. Although "distinctions between" may be replaced with simpler alternatives like "differences between" in informal settings, using the term helps convey a precise and analytical tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

differences between

Replaces "distinctions" with a more general term for dissimilarity.

variations between

Emphasizes the range of differences rather than specific points.

contrast between

Highlights a direct comparison showing clear opposites.

dissimilarities between

A more formal way to express differences, often used in academic or technical contexts.

divergences between

Focuses on the act of moving apart or differing over time.

separations between

Suggests a more definitive division or boundary.

discrimination between

Involves the ability to perceive or make fine distinctions.

demarcations between

Highlights the establishment of boundaries or limits.

differentiation between

Focuses on the process of distinguishing or becoming distinct.

departures between

Emphasizes points where things move away from a common standard or expectation.

FAQs

How to use "distinctions between" in a sentence?

You can use "distinctions between" to highlight the differences when comparing two or more things. For example, "The study highlights the "distinctions between" the two treatment groups."

What can I say instead of "distinctions between"?

You can use alternatives like "differences between", "variations between", or "contrast between" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "distinctions between" or "distinction between"?

"Distinctions between" is used when referring to multiple differences between two or more things. "Distinction between" is used when referring to a single difference between two things.

What's the difference between "distinctions between" and "differences among"?

"Distinctions between" is typically used when comparing two specific items, whereas "differences among" is used when discussing multiple items in a group. For example, "the "distinctions between" apples and oranges" versus "the differences among the various types of apples".