major distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

"major distinction" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it when you need to emphasize the difference between two things. For example, "The major distinction between a tablet and a laptop is that they have different designs and features."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Lavernes maintained that what they did -- screen-printing -- was a handicraft, a major distinction.

The New York Times - Magazine

One major distinction between Europa-Park and many of its rivals is that it's family-owned.

The Guardian - Travel

To the proud Wakefield, there is a major distinction between those descriptions.

The New York Times - Sports

The major distinction of a game modification or remake is the technical dimension.

The Guardian - Tech

The major distinction between the two was Vaughan's lack of classical training.

The New York Times - Arts

One major distinction is a legal one, however: the Chapmans buy the art before they deface it.

The New York Times - Arts

A major distinction must also be made between conventional bombs and atomic and thermonuclear bombs, which have a far greater destructive capacity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A major distinction between royal and nonroyal tombs lies in the provision of arrangements for the funerary cult of the deceased.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But there is one thing that unites the new movies coming out of Asia: they are not Hollywood films, a major distinction in a world where alternatives to the big American machine have become unconscionably rare.

The New York Times

The added complexity of the new figures, which can be pulled in half and swapped to open up over 250 new ability combinations, draws a major distinction between this series and Disney Infinity.

The Guardian - Tech

That's a major distinction.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "major distinction" when you want to emphasize the most significant differences between two or more items, ideas, or concepts.

Common error

Avoid using "major distinction" for minor or trivial differences; reserve it for truly significant points of divergence to maintain credibility and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "major distinction" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a significant difference between two or more entities. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its role in emphasizing a notable contrast.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "major distinction" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that effectively highlights significant differences. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across a variety of contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic content. When employing this phrase, ensure that the differences articulated are genuinely substantial to maintain clarity and impact. While the phrase has a relatively neutral tone, consider its formal implications to make the more appropriate register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant difference

Focuses on the degree of difference, implying it is substantial.

key difference

Emphasizes the importance of the difference.

primary difference

Highlights the main or most important difference.

important difference

Stresses the relevance or significance of the difference.

fundamental difference

Indicates a difference at the core or base level.

critical difference

Suggests the difference is essential and vital.

essential difference

Highlights the necessity or indispensability of the difference.

notable contrast

Focuses on the noticeable or remarkable difference.

marked contrast

Emphasizes the obvious and clear nature of the contrast.

principal difference

Highlights the foremost or leading difference.

FAQs

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

To effectively use "major distinction", clearly state the two items being compared and precisely articulate their most significant difference. For example, "A "major distinction" between cats and dogs is their typical behavior."

What phrases can I use instead of "major distinction"?

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

When is it appropriate to use "major distinction" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "major distinction" when you need to highlight the most important difference between two or more things. This is particularly useful in analytical or comparative writing.

What's the difference between "major distinction" and "minor distinction"?

"Major distinction" highlights a significant and important difference, while "minor distinction" points out a small or less important difference. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the magnitude of the difference you are describing.