distinctly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinctly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is clear, unmistakable, or easily distinguishable. Example: "She spoke distinctly, ensuring that everyone in the room could understand her message."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There was a showbiz feel to Fabian Delph announcing his commitment to Aston Villa directly over the big screen that, no doubt timed to spread a feelgood factor around the ground, was distinctly out of keeping with the majority of the season to date in this corner of the West Midlands.

The Guardian - Sport

It does not fully explain, however, why they were distinctly second best to the team who finished seven points behind them in the Championship.

The Guardian - Sport

It is a low-key, loose-fit architectural attitude that is distinctly at odds with many of the other west coast tech companies' sleeker ambitions.

The Guardian - Arts

European integration has long ceased to be animated by passions and ideals which could be viewed as distinctly Catholic.

The Guardian - Opinion

Research has suggested that people may enjoy distinctly better physical and mental health when they volunteer, including something called a "helper's high".

The Guardian

As at Brighton, where Damian McBride's allies and enemies bristled at each other, the atmosphere in the press seats at Manchester could prove distinctly frosty.

The Guardian

Their rightful claim of social exploitation by a group of disproportionately wealthy bankers with a distinctly cavalier attitude towards social and economic equality went viral.

The Guardian

Firstly, a clear point of difference - your product should be distinctly different in terms of ingredients, design and the customer need that it serves.

The Guardian

The album has since, apparently, been removed, but snippets from four tracks were posted along with the interview, and sound distinctly Aphex-like.

The Guardian - Music

The distinctly unamused Mr Pavlik said he expected the Postal Service to send the new papers special delivery, and that he fully anticipated that the new ballots would be delivered today or tomorrow morning.

The Guardian - Film

The Martini became drier during the course of the 20th century; DeVoto was writing in the 1940s and even then his ratio would be considered distinctly wet.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "distinctly" to emphasize a clear and easily recognizable difference or quality. It adds a sense of precision and clarity to your writing.

Common error

While "distinctly" is versatile, avoid using it too frequently in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "clearly" or "noticeably" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "distinctly" primarily functions to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, emphasizing the clarity, recognizability, or intensity of the action or quality being described. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples demonstrating this function effectively.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "distinctly" is a versatile adverb used to emphasize clarity and recognizability in various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently employed in news and media sources. While generally neutral, its formality makes it suitable for adding precision to well-structured communication. When writing, use "distinctly" to highlight clear differences or qualities, but avoid overuse in casual settings. Consider alternatives like "clearly" or "noticeably" for a more relaxed tone. Overall, this adverb enhances clarity and emphasis in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clearly

Focuses on the ease of perception or understanding.

noticeably

Emphasizes that something is easily observed or attracts attention.

markedly

Suggests a significant or prominent difference.

plainly

Highlights the obviousness or lack of ambiguity.

patently

Implies that something is undeniably evident.

unmistakably

Indicates that something cannot be confused with anything else.

decidedly

Emphasizes a clear and definite quality.

visibly

Focuses on what can be seen or visually perceived.

appreciably

Indicates a noticeable or measurable amount or degree.

conspicuously

Suggests something is very noticeable, often attracting attention.

FAQs

How can I use "distinctly" in a sentence?

"Distinctly" is used to emphasize that something is easily recognizable or clear. For example, "The room smelled "distinctly of lavender"" or "His voice was "distinctly different" from the others".

What are some alternatives to "distinctly"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "clearly", "noticeably", "markedly", or "plainly" instead of "distinctly".

Is it correct to say "distinctly different"?

Yes, "distinctly different" is a correct and commonly used phrase. It emphasizes that the difference is easily noticeable and clear. For instance, "The two paintings were "distinctly different in style"".

What is the difference between "distinctly" and "distinctively"?

"Distinctly" emphasizes clarity and ease of perception, while "distinctively" highlights something having a unique characteristic or style. For example, "She spoke "distinctly" so everyone could understand", versus "The building was "distinctively modern" in its design".