fundamental distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fundamental distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a major or essential difference or contrast between two things. For example, "The most fundamental distinction between the two approaches is how they view personal responsibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The fundamental distinction is simple.

The Economist

OK, I think he's missing a fundamental distinction here.

The New York Times

A more fundamental distinction is Mr. Levingston's devotion to contemporary music.

The New York Times - Arts

Banville concedes the similarity, but maintains that there is a fundamental distinction between himself and Nabokov.

The New Yorker

Gary's example defines a fundamental distinction between the fabulist and the fraud.

The New Yorker

But it also reveals a fundamental distinction between public art and private art.

The New York Times - Arts

This argument completely misses the fundamental distinction between what North Korea deserves and what it needs.

The New York Times

Perhaps the issue here is the fundamental distinction between the creative artist and the athlete.

The New York Times - Sports

The fundamental distinction in types of handwriting is that between book hands and documentary hands.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The fundamental distinction is now between objectivity and subjectivity, with two examples of each.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The existence of a taxon implies a fundamental distinction, akin to the difference between species.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fundamental distinction", ensure that the distinction you are highlighting is indeed a core or foundational difference, not a superficial one. Clearly articulate both sides of the distinction for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "fundamental distinction" when the difference is minor or nuanced. Using it for trivial differences weakens its impact and can mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fundamental distinction" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a key difference between two or more entities or concepts. As Ludwig AI shows, it's used to highlight essential differences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fundamental distinction" is a versatile and commonly used noun phrase that highlights core differences between concepts, ideas, or objects. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic sources. To ensure effective use, remember to articulate both sides of the distinction clearly and avoid using it for minor or superficial differences. Alternatives like "key difference" or "essential contrast" can be useful depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

foundational difference

Emphasizes that the distinction is a basis or groundwork for something else.

essential difference

Highlights the necessity and importance of the difference.

core distinction

Emphasizes the central and underlying difference.

basic difference

Focuses on the simplicity and foundational nature of the difference.

principal difference

Indicates the main or leading difference.

key contrast

Emphasizes the oppositional nature of the difference.

primary differentiation

Highlights the initial and most important point of distinction.

significant contrast

Highlights the notable and meaningful difference.

major divergence

Suggests a significant deviation or departure.

critical variance

Stresses the importance and impact of the difference.

FAQs

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

Use "fundamental distinction" to highlight a core difference between two concepts, ideas, or objects. For example, "The fundamental distinction between these theories lies in their approach to data analysis."

What's a good alternative to "fundamental distinction"?

Alternatives include "key difference", "essential contrast", or "basic difference", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state both sides of a "fundamental distinction"?

While not always mandatory, clearly articulating both sides of the "fundamental distinction" enhances clarity and prevents misinterpretations. This is particularly important in academic or technical writing.

What makes a distinction "fundamental" rather than just important?

A "fundamental" distinction is one that underlies the core nature or function of the things being compared. It's a difference that significantly affects how those things are understood or operate, unlike a superficial difference.