fine distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'fine distinction' is grammatically correct and regularly used in written English.
It is typically used when describing a small or subtle difference between two similar things or ideas. Example: The lawyer was known for her ability to make fine distinctions between legal terms, which often led to successful arguments in court.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A fine distinction there.

The Guardian - Sport

It seems a fine distinction.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's an awfully fine distinction.

The New Yorker

A rather fine distinction, perhaps.

The New York Times - Arts

That may seem a fine distinction.

The Economist

A fine distinction perhaps but a real one.

The New Yorker

Its latest report, the third in six months, ignores that fine distinction.

The Economist

That is because culturally, such a fine distinction eludes most teenagers.

The New York Times

But Priest and Arkin write that is a fine distinction in practice.

The Guardian

A fine distinction, perhaps, but Mr Amis, of all people, ought to be capable of making it.

Independent

"I am," she said, and then she drew a fine distinction that any scholar of kinship structures would appreciate.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fine distinction" when you want to emphasize a subtle but important difference between two concepts or objects. It's particularly useful in academic, legal, or philosophical contexts where precision is crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "fine distinction" when the difference is actually quite significant or obvious. This can diminish the impact of your writing and make it seem less credible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fine distinction" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It often serves as the object of a verb or preposition, highlighting a subtle yet important difference, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

18%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fine distinction" is a commonly used phrase to denote a subtle but significant difference. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and appears frequently in diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. When employing this phrase, ensure the difference is truly subtle and that highlighting it adds value to the discussion. Alternatives like "subtle difference" or "delicate nuance" can be used for variety, depending on the specific shade of meaning you want to convey. By understanding the nuances and appropriate usage of "fine distinction", you can enhance the precision and clarity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subtle difference

Focuses on the small and not easily noticed nature of the difference.

delicate nuance

Emphasizes the sensitivity and precision required to perceive the difference.

slight variation

Highlights a minor change or deviation.

hairline split

Suggests an extremely narrow and precise division.

minor discrepancy

Implies a small inconsistency or difference that may not be significant.

paper-thin difference

Stresses the insubstantial nature of the distinction.

technicality

Refers to a detail that is often overly precise or legalistic.

attenuated contrast

Highlights the reduced or weakened nature of the difference.

nice point

Suggests the difference is accurate and carefully considered.

precise point

Suggests the difference is exact and accurate.

FAQs

How can I use "fine distinction" in a sentence?

Use "fine distinction" to highlight a subtle but significant difference. For example, "There's a "fine distinction" between being frugal and being miserly".

What is a synonym for "fine distinction"?

Synonyms include "subtle difference", "delicate nuance", or "slight variation", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to point out a "fine distinction"?

No, only highlight a "fine distinction" if it's crucial for understanding the topic at hand. Overusing it can make your writing seem pedantic.

What's the difference between a "fine distinction" and a "major difference"?

A "fine distinction" refers to a subtle, nuanced difference, while a "major difference" is a significant and easily noticeable disparity. The choice depends on the magnitude of the difference you're describing.