distinctive talent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinctive talent" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means a unique or exceptional ability that sets someone apart from others. Example: Her distinctive talent for painting won her recognition and numerous awards.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

This is a truly elegant and outstanding production, thanks to Aliki's distinctive talent.

The Guardian - Books

A sprightly sense of humor and an audacious way with images marked her from the outset as a distinctive talent.

The New York Times

But to attribute her success to them misses the point that what they did was nurture an already distinctive talent.

The Guardian

Like Robert Lepage before her, Paulus's distinctive talent is rendered bland and banal in the face of the Cirque machine.

The Guardian

Camille A. Brown is a distinctive talent, but her kinetically dazzling solo "Good & Grown" eventually settled into busy monotony, with hyperactive arms, twisting torso and stylized facial expressions.

The New York Times - Arts

His most distinctive talent may be for tackling nominally controversial material in a way that reveals the irrational roots of the controversy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

The general verdict is that Mamet's distinctive talents are conspicuous here by their absence.

Independent

Anderson (still one of the most distinctive talents in US cinema) can do way better than this.

The Guardian - Film

Think of it as cirque du cabaret, in which a group of distinctive talents gets to show off the physical equivalents of individual song stylings (1 30).

The New York Times

Think of it as cirque du cabaret, in which a group of distinctive talents get to show off the physical equivalents of individual song stylings (1 30).

The New York Times

"Alan Parker is one of several distinctive talents to emerge from a very particular place and moment – the British advertising industry of the late 60s and early 70s".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's "distinctive talent", provide specific examples to illustrate the unique qualities of their ability. Avoid vague praise and instead focus on concrete achievements or skills.

Common error

While "distinctive talent" is generally acceptable, avoid using it excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced language to describe specific skills or abilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinctive talent" functions as a noun phrase, where 'distinctive' acts as an adjective modifying 'talent'. It describes a particular kind of ability that is unique and recognizable. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Arts

20%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "distinctive talent" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone's unique and exceptional ability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and the Arts. While alternatives like "unique ability" or "exceptional skill" exist, "distinctive talent" offers a balanced emphasis on both uniqueness and skill. When using the phrase, remember to provide specific examples to illustrate the unique qualities of the talent being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unique ability

Emphasizes the singularity of the ability rather than its general excellence.

exceptional skill

Focuses on the high level of proficiency, rather than its uniqueness.

remarkable gift

Highlights the innate quality and special nature of the ability.

outstanding aptitude

Stresses the natural inclination and potential for excellence.

singular capability

Draws attention to the characteristic of being the only one of its kind.

uncommon prowess

Implies a rare and exceptional skill or expertise.

special attribute

Shifts focus to a specific characteristic or quality that is particularly valuable.

signature strength

Highlights a particular skill that is strongly associated with an individual.

inimitable skill

Conveys that the skill is so unique that it cannot be replicated.

notable expertise

Highlights a significant level of skill and knowledge in a particular area.

FAQs

How can I use "distinctive talent" in a sentence?

You can use "distinctive talent" to describe a person's unique and exceptional ability. For example, "Her "distinctive talent" for playing the violin set her apart from her peers."

What are some alternatives to "distinctive talent"?

You can use alternatives like "unique ability", "exceptional skill", or "remarkable gift" depending on the context.

Is "distinctive talent" formal or informal?

"Distinctive talent" is generally considered appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, but choosing a more precise term may be preferable in highly formal or academic writing.

What does it mean to have a "distinctive talent"?

To have a "distinctive talent" means to possess a unique and recognizable ability that sets you apart from others in a particular field or area.