is distinguished

USAGE SUMMARY

"is distinguished" is a perfectly usable phrase in written English.
You would typically use it to describe someone or something that stands out from the crowd in a positive way, e.g. "He is distinguished by his intelligence and ambition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The prose is distinguished.

The New York Times - Magazine

Twill weave is distinguished by diagonal lines.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is distinguished from rime suffisante.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is distinguished from rime riche.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is distinguished principally by its modernity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Look Prince Philip is distinguished.

The Guardian

Ms. Schapiro's career is distinguished.

The New York Times - Arts

Sakurada's work is distinguished by its wit.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Here work is distinguished by its exquisite restraint.

The Guardian - Arts

Unfortunately, the story is distinguished only by degree.

The New Yorker

Shields is distinguished by more than his dental difficulties.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is distinguished" to emphasize qualities that set a subject apart positively from others. For instance, "Her leadership style is distinguished by empathy and strategic vision."

Common error

Avoid using "is distinguished" to describe negative traits or flaws. The phrase typically implies a positive differentiation, so using it in a negative context can be confusing. Instead of saying "His presentation is distinguished by errors", opt for "His presentation is marred by errors".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is distinguished" functions primarily as a passive verb phrase. It emphasizes the unique and notable characteristics of a subject, setting it apart from others. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples showcasing how something "is distinguished" by specific traits or qualities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is distinguished" serves to emphasize the unique and notable characteristics of a subject, differentiating it positively from others. Ludwig AI analysis confirms this through numerous examples, highlighting the phrase's frequent use in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts. While grammatically sound and versatile, it’s important to use it in appropriate contexts, typically those requiring a neutral to formal tone. Alternatives such as "is characterized by" or "is set apart" can provide nuanced variations, but the core purpose remains to draw attention to the subject's exceptional qualities. As Ludwig AI points out, using it to indicate negative traits should be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is set apart

Emphasizes the separation or differentiation from others in a similar category.

is marked by

Highlights specific traits or features that make something noticeable or different.

is unique

Highlights the distinctiveness and unmatched qualities of something.

is characterized

Focuses on the typical attributes or features something possesses rather than its superior qualities.

is prominent

Indicates that something stands out and is easily noticed or important.

is recognized for

Indicates that something is known or acknowledged for certain qualities or achievements.

is exceptional

Stresses the outstanding and superior nature of something.

is notable for

Draws attention to a particular aspect or quality that is worthy of recognition.

is renowned for

Suggests a widespread fame or positive reputation based on specific attributes.

is preeminent

Implies a superior status or excellence in comparison to others.

FAQs

How do I use "is distinguished" in a sentence?

Use "is distinguished" to highlight what makes something or someone stand out positively. For example, "The author's writing "is distinguished" by its clarity and wit."

What can I say instead of "is distinguished"?

You can use alternatives like "is characterized", "is notable for", or "is set apart" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "is distinguished by" or "is distinguished from"?

"Is distinguished by" highlights unique qualities or features, while "is distinguished from" indicates differentiation between two or more items. Both are correct, but their meanings differ.

What's the difference between "is distinguished" and "is dignified"?

"Is distinguished" means to be notable or different in a positive way, while "is dignified" means to be worthy of respect or honor. They describe different attributes.