gain distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

'gain distinction' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is commonly used to refer to achieving recognition, often in the form of awards, honors, or titles. For example: "I worked hard to gain distinction in my field and was delighted to be recognized with the industry's highest award."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The lack of a place for disabled vehicles has helped the three-mile-long Tappan Zee gain distinction as the most dangerous section of the 641 miles of roadway run by the New York State Thruway Authority.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Women also gained distinction in postal and problem chess during this period.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Since returning to the faculty, Happer has gained distinction for his work in other fields.

Princeton University

Now David Schofield shuffles through the role in a performance that gains distinction through an almost laconic lack of effort.

The Guardian

From 1833 to 1837, Lesseps was consul at Cairo, where he gained distinction in combating an outbreak of plague.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He served under the Duke of Marlborough from 1706 in the War of the Spanish Succession, gaining distinction at the Battle of Malplaquet in 1709.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Her first affiliation was with the Basel Opera (Switz)., where she quickly gained distinction in works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Richard Strauss, from 1983 to 1985.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The form gained distinction in the 17th century, during the Tokugawa period, when the great master Bashō elevated the hokku, as it was then known, to a highly refined and conscious art.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some women have gained distinction in the professions; some of Pakistan's leading politicians, journalists, and teachers have been women, and a woman has served as prime minister and as speaker of parliament.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Waseda has gained distinction in the fields of literature, political science, and business education and includes schools of political science and economics, law, literature, education, commerce, science and engineering, and social science.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Howard gained distinction for his taxonomic work; he described 47 new genera of parasitic Hymenoptera (the order of insects that includes wasps and ants) and more than 20 species of mosquitoes, accomplishing the latter with the help of Harrison G. Dyar and Frederick Knab.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gain distinction" to emphasize the process of achieving recognition or standing out, rather than simply stating that someone is already distinguished. It implies effort and progression.

Common error

While "gain distinction" is appropriate in many situations, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Consider alternatives like "achieve prominence" or "attain recognition" for added nuance and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain distinction" functions as a verb phrase indicating the process of obtaining recognition or standing out in a positive way. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It describes how someone actively earns or achieves a special status.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

35%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gain distinction" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes the process of achieving recognition or standing out. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and appropriate for various contexts, especially news, academic writing, and encyclopedic entries. While highly versatile, consider alternatives like "achieve recognition" or "attain prominence" for nuanced expressions. Remember to use the phrase to emphasize the process of earning recognition rather than simply stating an existing status.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinguish oneself

Highlights the active effort to set oneself apart.

achieve recognition

Focuses on the act of being recognized for accomplishments.

earn recognition

Highlights the effort involved in achieving recognition.

attain prominence

Emphasizes reaching a high level of fame or importance.

acquire fame

Focuses specifically on becoming famous.

garner acclaim

Focuses on receiving praise and positive feedback.

stand out

Highlights the act of being noticeably different and superior.

make a name for oneself

Indicates establishing a reputation or identity.

become notable

Indicates becoming worthy of attention or recognition.

rise to eminence

Suggests a gradual ascent to a position of high regard.

FAQs

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

You can use "gain distinction" to describe how someone earns recognition, such as, "She worked tirelessly to "gain distinction" in her field."

What are some alternatives to "gain distinction"?

Alternatives include "achieve recognition", "earn recognition", or "distinguish oneself" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more correct to say "gain distinction" or "achieve distinction"?

Both "gain distinction" and "achieve distinction" are grammatically correct and widely used. The best choice depends on the context and the specific emphasis you want to give. "Gain" suggests a process over time, while "achieve" implies a specific accomplishment.

What is the difference between "gain distinction" and "become notable"?

"Gain distinction" implies a more active effort and recognition of excellence, while "become notable" simply suggests becoming worthy of attention or recognition, often without the same implication of high achievement. You can also use "attain prominence".