in distinction from

USAGE SUMMARY

"in distinction from" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to point out the differences between two things. For example, "In distinction from human brains, computers can process highly complex data without tiring."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

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

It was found that development of trust in others in young people with high levels of innovative activity contributed to group cohesion, team building and teamwork, they trust others in distinction from the students with low level of innovative activity.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

In distinction from the successful man of action who is able to impose his wishes on reality, or the artist who transforms them into works of art, the neurotic escapes from reality through his symptoms.

The New Yorker

My own position, in distinction from the conservative, secret-police aesthetic of the camp administration, consists in reading my books and journals during moments that I extract by force from the deadening daily schedule of the prison colony.

The New York Times

It could add to the stature of man inasmuch as man, in distinction from other living things, desires to be at home in a "territory" as large as possible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Improvements on the diagnosis of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in life were made with the introduction of venography in 1951, which also aided in the distinction from idiopathic intracranial hypertension, which has similar presenting signs and symptoms in many cases.

Wikipedia

The bartenders returned the bone to the gas lamp, where it dangles in alabaster distinction from its dusty mates.

The New York Times

This article outlines the projective approach to the Russian language in its distinction from "objective" and "normative" approaches (as formulated by A.A. Peshkovskii).

Russian Literature

In sharp distinction from the Qin, who tried to suppress culture, the Han came to require cultural accomplishment from their public servants, making mastery of classical texts a condition of employment.

Britannica

Putting our own preferences aside, the awards, in suggesting the industry's image of itself, are the one way that the industry as a whole asserts its preferences in (some) distinction from the box-office results.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in distinction from", maintain a consistent level of formality to match the surrounding text and audience.

Common error

Avoid using "in distinction from" in informal contexts where simpler alternatives like "unlike" or "different from" would be more appropriate. Excessive formality can make your writing sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in distinction from" functions as a prepositional phrase used to introduce a contrast or difference between two subjects. It sets up a comparison where a notable difference exists, emphasizing the unique qualities of one subject relative to another. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

Encyclopedias

15%

Academia

13%

Less common in

News & Media

17%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the prepositional phrase "in distinction from" serves to clearly delineate differences between two subjects, making it suitable for formal and academic contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently employed in scientific, encyclopedic, and academic writing. While alternatives like "as opposed to" or "unlike" exist, "in distinction from" provides a more nuanced and emphasized comparison. When using this phrase, ensure consistency in formality and avoid overuse in casual settings to maintain clarity and avoid sounding stilted. The phrase's prominence in authoritative sources underscores its value in precise and formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinct from

Directly indicates a clear difference.

in contrast to

Highlights differences between two entities.

differing from

Implies variation or divergence.

as opposed to

Emphasizes a direct contrast or opposition.

contrary to

Suggests an opposite or conflicting nature.

unlike

A simpler way to indicate dissimilarity.

in opposition to

Highlights conflict or resistance.

in contradiction to

Emphasizes logical inconsistency.

in divergence from

Focuses on a gradual move away or deviation.

separate from

Emphasizes the state of being divided or not connected.

FAQs

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

Use "in distinction from" to highlight notable differences between two things. For example, "In distinction from human brains, computers excel at rapid calculations".

What are some alternatives to "in distinction from"?

You can use alternatives such as "as opposed to", "in contrast to", or simply "unlike" depending on the level of formality required.

Is there a difference between "in distinction from" and "distinct from"?

While similar, "distinct from" is more direct. "In distinction from" can sometimes imply a more elaborate or emphasized comparison.

When is it best to use "in distinction from" over simpler alternatives?

Use "in distinction from" in formal or academic writing when you want to emphasize a clear and significant difference between two subjects or concepts. In more casual contexts, simpler alternatives are preferable.