distinguished

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "distinguished" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that stands out due to its importance, excellence, or superior quality. For example: "The distinguished philanthropist devoted her life to helping those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"There are artists I have shown here who have had very distinguished careers and many of them used to be in the public eye much more than they are now.

The Guardian - Arts

Rev Paul Nicolson Taxpayers Against Poverty The individually distinguished Core Cities UK Cabinet members are making one bad mistake on devolution.

The Guardian

Distinguished doubles are often difficult to achieve for no other reason than the celebration from securing the first leg can have a harmful effect on the chances of completing the second.

The Guardian - Sport

The boundary between home and away distinguished the permissible from the unconstitutional.

The Guardian - Tech

He could have been distinguished in academic life his work on Herodotus suggests that he could have made his mark as a classical scholar but his excursions into English verse, collected, in 1990, from several slim volumes, hardly suggest that we lost a poet when we gained a politician.

The Guardian

Sebastian lived a happy and fulfilled life in his adopted country with his partner of more than 40 years, Judith Binney, a historian and distinguished writer about Maori history, who died in 2011.

The Guardian

The campaign was distinguished by the huge number of "other" candidates, ranging from Mr Auberon Waugh of the Dog Lovers Party to Dr Frank Hansford Miller of the English National Party.

The Guardian

While on Capitol Hill, Chafee distinguished himself as perhaps the most liberal Republican in Washington.

The Guardian

From the 1960s onwards, Wally Olins, who has died aged 83, was Britain's most articulate and effective proselytiser for the new commercial religion of branding, and for the profession of branding consultant, something to be distinguished from the familiar "marketing communications" trades such as advertising, PR and even design.

The Guardian

And there is an unusual rapport between her and distinguished, amiable Susan Hill as they set out to explain what is involved in being parent and guardian to The Woman in Black.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It also needed us to think about what it is that distinguished human from animal sex, and to some degree what it is that distinguishes humans from animals.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "distinguished" to describe individuals or entities that have earned significant recognition and respect in their field or community. Ensure the context clearly supports the notion of noteworthy achievement or status.

Common error

Avoid using "distinguished" in casual or informal settings. The term carries a formal tone and may sound pretentious if applied inappropriately. Consider using simpler alternatives like "well-known" or "respected" in less formal situations.

Linguistic Context

"Distinguished" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to denote exceptional quality, recognition, or status. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is grammatically correct and widely accepted. Examples show it describing careers, figures, and contributions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "distinguished" functions primarily as an adjective to denote exceptional quality, recognition, or status. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It is most frequently found in news, science, and formal business contexts. The term is used to convey respect and admiration, highlighting positive attributes and notable achievements. While versatile, "distinguished" carries a formal tone, making it less suitable for casual settings. Synonyms include "eminent", "renowned", and "celebrated". Proper usage involves ensuring that the context warrants the level of respect and recognition implied by the word.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

eminent

This term suggests a high degree of importance and respect, focusing on recognized superiority.

renowned

Implies widespread fame and respect, particularly for achievements.

celebrated

Highlights public recognition and admiration for notable accomplishments.

notable

Indicates something worthy of attention or respect due to its significance.

esteemed

Conveys a sense of high regard and respect, often in professional contexts.

illustrious

Suggests a history of great achievements and fame.

accomplished

Focuses on having achieved a high level of skill or success.

prominent

Highlights being well-known and important, often within a specific field.

respected

Indicates that someone or something is admired and held in high regard.

venerable

Implies age and a history of deserving respect and admiration.

FAQs

How to use "distinguished" in a sentence?

Use "distinguished" to describe someone or something that is well-known and respected for their achievements or qualities. For example, "She is a "distinguished scholar" in her field."

What can I say instead of "distinguished"?

You can use alternatives like "eminent", "renowned", or "celebrated" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "distinguished career" or "distinct career"?

"Distinguished career" is correct when referring to a career marked by excellence and recognition. "Distinct career" implies a career that is different or unique.

What's the difference between "distinguished" and "famous"?

"Distinguished" implies respect and high regard, often based on achievements, while "famous" simply means widely known. A person can be famous without being "distinguished", and vice versa.