important distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "important distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the difference between two or more things. For example, "It is an important distinction to understand that employees of the company should never enter the server room without permission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Important distinction.

The Guardian - Tech

That's an important distinction.

The New York Times

It's an important distinction.

The New York Times

"It's important distinction".

The New York Times

It was an important distinction.

The New York Times - Sports

That is an important distinction.

The New Yorker

That's a very important distinction".

The New Yorker

Religion was an important distinction.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Which is an important distinction.

The Guardian - Books

The important distinction is in the response.

The New York Times - Health

"We think that's an important distinction".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When highlighting the "important distinction", explicitly state both elements being distinguished to ensure clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the significance of the "important distinction" if the actual difference is minor or inconsequential. Ensure the distinction genuinely warrants emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "important distinction" functions as a noun phrase emphasizing a significant difference between two or more entities or concepts. Ludwig AI suggests that is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "important distinction" is a correct and frequently used phrase in English to emphasize a notable difference. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical validity. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, its purpose is to clarify and differentiate concepts. When using this phrase, ensure the distinction is genuinely significant and clearly defined. Alternatives include "significant difference" and "key differentiation". Avoid exaggerating the distinction's impact and always state both elements being distinguished.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meaningful distinction

This stresses that the distinction carries importance and value.

significant difference

This alternative emphasizes the degree of difference between two things.

key differentiation

This highlights a crucial point of difference that sets things apart.

notable contrast

This suggests a readily apparent and worthy-of-attention difference.

relevant dissimilarity

This underscores that the difference is pertinent and applicable to the situation.

critical variance

This implies that the difference has a substantial impact or effect.

essential divergence

This denotes a fundamental deviation that is crucial to acknowledge.

marked separation

This highlights a clear and distinct division or boundary.

vital disjunction

This suggests a crucial point where things do not connect or agree.

major discrepancy

This signifies a substantial lack of agreement or consistency.

FAQs

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

You can use "important distinction" to highlight a key difference between two concepts, ideas, or items. For example, "There's an important distinction between knowing the law and understanding its implications."

What are some alternatives to using "important distinction"?

You can use alternatives like "significant difference", "key differentiation", or "notable contrast" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "important distinction" and "minor detail"?

"Important distinction" emphasizes a significant difference that has consequences, while "minor detail" refers to an insignificant difference that doesn't greatly impact the overall outcome.

Is it always necessary to highlight an "important distinction"?

Highlighting an "important distinction" is useful when clarifying potential confusion or when the difference significantly affects understanding or decision-making. However, it's unnecessary when the difference is obvious or irrelevant.