distinctly different

USAGE SUMMARY

"distinctly different" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when trying to emphasize the fact that two things are very different from one another. For example: The two books were distinctly different in terms of their content and writing style.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They did distinctly different things.

The New Yorker

It is distinctly different".

The New York Times

Each has a distinctly different appeal.

The New York Times - Arts

Fusion power and fire are distinctly different.

The New York Times

Matrice's background was distinctly different from Kirk's.

The New Yorker

"Everyone is distinctly different," Dr. Fisher said.

The New York Times - Health

There was something distinctly different here.

The New York Times

Seaview's two courses have distinctly different personalities.

The New York Times - Travel

Both teams bring distinctly different personalities into the matchup.

The New York Times - Sports

The new customers have a distinctly different mission.

The New York Times

Often the arrangement means living in two distinctly different neighborhoods.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "distinctly different" to emphasize a clear and easily recognizable contrast between two or more items. It adds weight to the difference being described.

Common error

Avoid using "distinctly different" in every comparison. Overuse can diminish its impact. Opt for simpler words when the contrast is already clear or less significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinctly different" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to emphasize a notable contrast. This is validated by Ludwig AI, which confirms its correct and usable nature. It is used to highlight that the difference is easily noticeable and important.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "distinctly different" serves to emphasize a notable contrast between two or more things. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It's prevalent across various contexts, including News & Media and Science. While commonly used, it's important to avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Alternatives include "clearly distinguishable" or "markedly contrasting". When using this expression, ensure it accurately reflects a significant difference, as opposed to a slight variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unmistakably different

Implies that there is no chance of confusing the items due to their differences.

easily differentiated

Highlights that the differences are easy to recognise.

visibly contrasting

Highlights that the differences are easy to see.

clearly distinguishable

Emphasizes the ease with which the differences can be observed or identified.

strikingly contrasting

Emphasizes the surprising or remarkable nature of the difference.

markedly contrasting

Highlights the contrast or opposition between the items being compared.

decidedly contrasting

Highlights that the difference is clear and without doubt.

noticeably divergent

Focuses on the extent to which the items have moved apart or differ from a common point.

patently dissimilar

Replaces "distinctly" with "patently" which suggests an obvious difference.

plainly disparate

Emphasizes the separate and unequal nature of the items.

FAQs

How can I use "distinctly different" in a sentence?

Use "distinctly different" to emphasize a clear contrast between two or more things. For example: "The two approaches were "distinctly different" in their methodologies".

What are some alternatives to "distinctly different"?

Alternatives include "clearly distinguishable", "markedly contrasting", or "unmistakably different", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "very distinctly different"?

Adding "very" to "distinctly different" can be redundant because "distinctly" already implies a clear difference. It's usually better to use one or the other, or to rephrase.

What's the difference between "distinctly different" and "slightly different"?

"Distinctly different" emphasizes a significant contrast, while "slightly different" indicates a minor variation. The choice depends on the degree of difference you want to convey.