in distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to highlight a difference or contrast between two or more things. Example: "In distinction to her previous work, this new project showcases a more innovative approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Medals and ribbons, there's almost no difference in distinction, fundamentally.

The New York Times

A world lacking in distinction between the trivial and the profound!

The New York Times

He looked like the hardest runner, seemed a tough, wiry type, lacking in distinction.

The New Yorker

"The church has accommodated itself so much, and is so lacking in distinction".

Independent

A coherent "I" must define itself in distinction to others — I am I because I am not you.

The New Yorker

Rapid downcutting produces flat-floored trenches, called arroyos, in distinction from the often V-shaped gullies of humid areas.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(Thomas, however, in distinction from Aristotle, added divinely revealed propositions to self-evident truths in forming his basis for inference).

Encyclopedia Britannica

On Sonny Rollins's 1956 record "Tenor Madness" (Prestige), Coltrane is just beginning, constructing an onrushing solo in distinction to Mr. Rollins's series of pointed, clean melodic improvisations.

The New York Times

Children, in distinction to grown-ups, almost always look pretty in the water, and the tight-fitting suit prevents anything of their prettiness being lost.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I had that feeling that the city is the land of 10,000 things, in distinction to the narrow house with two acres in the suburbs".

The New York Times

The growth of the "legitimate" theatre from the 1880s, in distinction to more popular, melodramatic forms, is indicative of this development.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in distinction" when you want to explicitly highlight a difference between two concepts, ideas, or objects, particularly in formal or academic writing.

Common error

Avoid using "in distinction" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "unlike" or "different from" are generally more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in distinction" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase used to introduce a contrast or difference. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in distinction" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed prepositional phrase, particularly within formal writing styles and academic or scientific contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to clearly highlight the differences between two or more subjects. While very common in formal settings like science and news media, it may be overly formal for casual conversations. Related alternatives include "in contrast to", "as opposed to", and "unlike", offering writers flexibility depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in contrast to

This alternative uses a more direct and common way to express opposition or difference.

as opposed to

Similar to "in contrast to", this phrase emphasizes a clear opposition between two things.

in comparison with

This phrase highlights differences while also considering similarities, making it less about pure opposition.

unlike

A simple and direct way to point out a difference.

distinct from

This alternative focuses on the separate and unique nature of something.

in opposition to

This suggests a more direct conflict or resistance.

contrary to

This implies a contradiction or disagreement with something else.

different from

A basic and widely understood way to state that two things are not the same.

by way of contrast

This alternative provides a more formal and emphatic way to introduce a difference.

as distinguished from

This focuses on the act of clearly differentiating between two things.

FAQs

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

You can use "in distinction" to highlight differences between two things. For example: "In distinction to the first proposal, this one focuses on long-term sustainability."

What phrases are similar to "in distinction"?

Alternatives include "in contrast to", "as opposed to", or "unlike", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "in distinction", or are there simpler options?

While "in distinction" is grammatically correct, simpler options like "different from" or "in comparison to" might be more appropriate in less formal contexts.

What's the difference between "in distinction" and "in contrast"?

Both phrases highlight differences, but "in distinction" often implies a more formal or academic context, while "in contrast" is more generally applicable.