main distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "main distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to highlight the primary difference between two or more subjects or concepts. Example: "The main distinction between cats and dogs is their behavior and social interaction with humans."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

For Roberts, the main distinction is between activity and inactivity.

The Guardian - Opinion

They argued that the main distinction between terminal sedation and euthanasia was time.

The New York Times - Health

But the reality is that that is the main distinction between the killers and the killees.

The New York Times

The main distinction is between what feels alive and what does not.

The New York Times

Its main distinction is that it is set in a post-O.

The New York Times - Arts

Yahoo says the main distinction from Google will be in providing information about how a given ad is displayed.

The New York Times - Tech

Belmont's main distinction continued to stand out: races there were run to the left instead of the traditional American right.

The New York Times

Their main distinction, from users' point of view, is simply that they are available free of charge.

The Economist

Up until that point, the site's main distinction was that it had raised two hundred and twenty-five million dollars before the public could buy anything on it.

The New Yorker

But its main distinction was that it sought new customers through banner advertisements and e-mail solicitations rather than through the mailings used by most credit card companies.

The New York Times

Another main distinction is that closed-end funds can borrow money to make larger bets on the markets, winning or losing bigger.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "main distinction", ensure you clearly articulate both sides of the comparison to provide context for the distinction.

Common error

Avoid using "main distinction" when the differences are multifaceted and cannot be accurately reduced to a single, primary factor. Acknowledge the complexity instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "main distinction" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves to identify the most significant difference between two or more entities, concepts, or phenomena. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a common and grammatically sound expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Other

18%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "main distinction" is a versatile and frequently used expression for pinpointing the most significant difference between entities or concepts. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. Our analysis, drawing from diverse sources like The New York Times, scientific journals, and encyclopedias, reveals that while the phrase maintains a neutral to formal register, it's particularly common in science and news media where clear, analytical comparisons are essential. When employing "main distinction", consider alternative phrases like "key difference" or "primary difference" for subtle variations in emphasis, and avoid oversimplifying complex topics by using the phrase when multiple factors are at play.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key difference

Focuses on a significant point of divergence.

primary difference

Emphasizes the most important point of dissimilarity.

chief distinction

Highlights the principal differentiating factor.

principal difference

Indicates the foremost difference between items.

major difference

Stresses a substantial dissimilarity.

central difference

Emphasizes the difference that is most critical or fundamental.

defining characteristic

Singles out a trait that uniquely identifies something.

hallmark feature

Identifies a prominent and recognizable trait.

distinctive aspect

Points to a unique and noticeable attribute.

unique selling proposition

Focuses on the specific benefit that sets a product or service apart from its competitors.

FAQs

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

Use "main distinction" to highlight the most important difference between two or more things. For example, "The "main distinction" between cats and dogs is their level of independence."

What is an alternative to saying "main distinction"?

You can use phrases like "key difference", "primary difference", or "chief distinction" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "main distinction" and "minor difference"?

"Main distinction" refers to the most significant difference, while "minor difference" indicates a less important or trivial difference.

Is it better to use "main distinction" or "principal difference"?

Both ""main distinction"" and "principal difference" are acceptable and largely interchangeable. The choice depends on stylistic preference and the specific context.