distinctness

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'distinctness' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the quality of standing out or being markedly different from something else. For example, "The distinctness of the building's architecture made it stand out from the other structures in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Language relativity does not imply that the distinctness of distinct objects cannot go unnoticed.

SEP

There is a more complicated story about how perceptual distinctness relates to a distinct concept, as described by Leibniz in "Meditations on Knowledge, Truth, and Ideas," AG 23 27.

SEP

And chemical kinds appear to obey the categorical distinctness requirement: iron is clearly distinct from its neighbours in the periodic table (manganese and cobalt); no elements are intermediate kinds (criterion 6 above).

SEP

On his account, the identity sign disappears in a full analysis of language, wherein sameness and distinction are shown by sameness and distinctness of names, no two of which refer, in fully analysed language, to the same object (this view gives grounds for interpreting mathematical utterances in the Tractatus as unsinnig).

SEP

Though simpler ideas are generally easier to make clear and distinct, simplicity is not a requirement: "A concept is not any more distinct because we include less in it; its distinctness simply depends on our carefully distinguishing what we do include in it from everything else" (Prin. 1 63, AT 8a:31; cf. Prin. 1 45).

SEP

Here the distinctness of the variables (the fact that they are distinct) replaces the sign of distinctness "≠" (cf. 5.53).

SEP

At the same time, extreme haecceitism is typically paired with a commitment to the necessity of identity and distinctness and therefore rules out possibilities according to which actually distinct objects are one and the same.

SEP

The EDGE currently lists the Lake Oku clawed frog (Xenopus longipes) as number 35 out of some 7,000 amphibian species in terms of its evolutionary distinctness (or how far they are separated from other species on the tree of life) and its proximity to extinction.

The Guardian

But this appearance of distinctness may be explainable.

The Economist

Ever closer links with China have actually sharpened Hong Kong's sense of its own distinctness.

The Economist

Opposite to confusedness of ideas is distinctness.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "distinctness" to emphasize the quality of clear differentiation between two or more entities. For example, highlight the "distinctness" of design elements in a presentation to underscore their unique contributions.

Common error

Avoid using "distinctness" when merely indicating a difference. "Distinctness" implies a notable and easily perceivable differentiation. Simple variations should be described using terms like "difference" or "variation" rather than "distinctness".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "distinctness" is as a noun. It refers to the quality or state of being distinct. Ludwig examples show its use in various philosophical and scientific contexts, illustrating its role in discussions about identity, perception, and categorization.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "distinctness" is a noun that denotes the quality of being clearly distinguishable or differentiated. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and suitable for use in formal writing. Its primary function is to emphasize clarity and differentiation, making it prevalent in scientific and philosophical contexts. While frequently encountered in academic and scientific texts, "distinctness" also appears in news and media. When using "distinctness", ensure it reflects a notable and easily perceivable differentiation. Related terms include "uniqueness", "separateness", and "differentiation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uniqueness

Focuses more on the one-of-a-kind nature of something.

separateness

Emphasizes the state of being apart or not connected.

differentiation

Highlights the process of distinguishing or telling apart.

individuality

Stresses the qualities that make one person or thing different from others.

singularity

Implies being exceptional or remarkable.

contrast

Highlights the differences when compared to something else.

dissimilarity

Focuses on the lack of resemblance between things.

divergence

Suggests a deviation from a common point or standard.

peculiarity

Emphasizes an odd or unusual quality.

disparity

Highlights a noticeable difference or inequality.

FAQs

How can I use "distinctness" in a sentence?

"Distinctness" is used to describe the quality of being easily distinguishable or clearly different. For example: "The "distinctness" of her accent made it easy to identify her origins."

What are some alternatives to using "distinctness"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "uniqueness", "separateness", or "differentiation" to convey a similar meaning.

How does "distinctness" differ from "difference"?

"Difference" simply indicates that things are not the same. "Distinctness" implies a noticeable and easily perceivable separation or contrast. "Distinctness" is a stronger term indicating clarity and ease of differentiation.

When is it appropriate to use "distinctness" in writing?

Use "distinctness" when you want to emphasize the clear and unambiguous differentiation between two or more things. It is particularly appropriate when highlighting unique qualities or characteristics that set something apart.