distinguished lineage

USAGE SUMMARY

"distinguished lineage" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a person, family, or other group is descended from a long line of respected figures. For example, "She was from a distinguished lineage, with numerous famous politicians and celebrities in her family tree."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The female trickster has a long and distinguished lineage.

The New Yorker

It reminds us that while Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot usually gets credit for establishing the modern landscape tradition of painting directly from nature, or en plein air, he descended from a long, distinguished lineage.

The New York Times

And if you stand at work today, you join a distinguished lineage — Leonardo da Vinci, Ben Franklin, Winston Churchill, Vladimir Nabokov and, according to a recent profile in The New York Times, Philip Roth.

The New York Times

And it's clear from the works on display that the Women's March has a long and distinguished lineage of collective female protest, from the "peacettes" of the first world war to the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom (founded in 1915 and still active today) to the women of Greenham Common.

The Guardian - Arts

Stx-phage insertion site typing distinguished lineage I strains as a separate cluster but lineage II strain EC869 did not form a distinct cluster from the lineage I/II strains.

BMC Genomics

Bruce comes from a distinguished lineage of tea apostles.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Neutral variation distinguished lineages and defined broad-scale population structure consistent with previous studies, but fine-scale resolution was also detected at levels not previously observed.

Evolutionary Applications

There was significant variation in rRNA gene ratios, and at least two distinct rDNA genotypes were distinguished: lineages 73-2 and 73-13 had nearly balanced DU/PO ratios, while lineages 73-1 and 73-14 had ratios skewed towards T. dubius-origin rDNA (61-75%).

BMC Evolutionary Biology

It is important to distinguish lineage specific gene expression shown here, which occurs at a high level and with a degree of specificity in the different population compartments, to the low level of genome wide transcription observed in ES cells by others [22], or with transcript initiation at many loci noted previously in ES cells [23].

Plosone

A better outgroup to distinguish lineage specific novelties would include other members of Arthropoda.

BMC Genomics

Routine use of real-time nested RT-PCR that distinguish lineage 1 and 2 by hybridization probe analysis (12) resulted in rapid detection of a lineage 1 strain as an emerging pathogen in the country.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's background, use "distinguished lineage" to emphasize not just their ancestry, but also the positive attributes and achievements associated with it. It adds a layer of respect and importance to their heritage.

Common error

Avoid using "distinguished lineage" when simply referring to someone's family history without any notable achievements or reputation. The phrase implies more than just ancestry; it suggests a heritage of significant accomplishments and positive qualities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinguished lineage" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "distinguished" modifies the noun "lineage". It serves to describe a particular kind of ancestry or heritage. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in describing backgrounds with notable qualities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

37%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "distinguished lineage" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe an ancestry marked by notable achievements, high social standing, or respected qualities. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent use in contexts such as news reporting and scientific literature. While its usage is generally formal, it's important to ensure that the context is appropriate, as misusing it in scenarios lacking genuine distinction would be incorrect. Alternatives such as "illustrious ancestry" or "noble heritage" can be used to convey a similar meaning, depending on the specific nuance you wish to highlight.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

illustrious ancestry

Replaces "distinguished lineage" using "illustrious" to emphasize the notable achievements and reputation of the ancestors.

noble heritage

Uses "noble" to highlight the high social status and ethical values associated with the lineage.

venerable pedigree

Employs "venerable" to emphasize the age and respectability of the ancestry.

esteemed descent

Replaces "lineage" with "descent" and uses "esteemed" to highlight the high regard in which the family is held.

prestigious ancestry

Similar to "illustrious ancestry", but uses "prestigious" to stress the high status and influence associated with the family's history.

remarkable parentage

Highlights the exceptional qualities of the parents in the lineage, emphasizing their contribution to the family's reputation.

notable extraction

Uses "extraction" as a more formal synonym for lineage and "notable" to indicate the significance of the ancestry.

prominent stock

Employs "stock" to refer to the family line and "prominent" to highlight their importance and visibility.

celebrated family tree

More figurative, emphasizing that this lineage has a history that is worth celebrating.

renowned bloodline

Focuses on the inherent qualities passed down through the family's bloodline, using "renowned" to indicate widespread recognition and respect.

FAQs

What does it mean to have a "distinguished lineage"?

Having a "distinguished lineage" means that someone comes from a family with a long history of notable achievements, high social standing, or respected qualities. It implies more than just ancestry; it suggests a heritage of excellence.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "distinguished lineage"?

It's appropriate to use "distinguished lineage" when you want to highlight the positive reputation and accomplishments of a person's ancestors. This phrase conveys a sense of respect, prestige, and historical significance.

What are some alternatives to saying "distinguished lineage"?

Some alternatives include "illustrious ancestry", "noble heritage", or "venerable pedigree", depending on the specific aspect of the lineage you want to emphasize.

How can I use "distinguished lineage" in a sentence?

You might say, "The university president comes from a "distinguished lineage" of educators and public servants," or "Her "distinguished lineage" could be traced back to several prominent figures in the country's history".