palpable distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "palpable distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a clear and noticeable difference between two or more things. Example: "There is a palpable distinction between the two approaches to solving the problem, making it easier to choose the best one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

So it was surprising to step foot into the US in my twenties and learn there was a palpable gender distinction in place: "boys invent things and girls use things that boys invent". Fast forward nearly twenty years.

HuffPost

She looks with palpable intensity, notes the distinction between the figures in the foreground and those in the background, closer to Jesus: "The closer they are to us, the less attention they pay him," she notes.

The New York Times - Books

The distinction between Casa Cook and its neighbouring resorts is palpable – and nowhere more so than in the hotel's restaurant.

The Guardian - Travel

The shock is palpable.

University of California, Berkeley

Palpable nonsense.

Independent

(Describes distinction).

The New Yorker

Financial tensions are palpable.

The Washington Post

Their frustration was palpable.

The Washington Post

The disappointment is palpable.

The Guardian

The excitement was palpable.

The Guardian - Film

But it's palpable.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "palpable distinction" when you want to emphasize that a difference is not just intellectual, but can be almost felt or sensed. It's stronger than simply saying 'clear difference'.

Common error

Avoid using "palpable distinction" in highly technical or scientific writing where precise measurements and data are more appropriate than subjective impressions. In those scenarios, more precise terms like 'significant difference' might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "palpable distinction" primarily functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "palpable" modifies the noun "distinction", emphasizing that the difference is easily perceived or felt. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "palpable distinction" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a clear and noticeable difference that is almost tangible. While the phrase is correct, Ludwig suggests that it's usage is infrequent, being more common in news and media contexts and less so in scientific or informal settings. The related phrases, such as "obvious difference" or "clear differentiation", can be used as alternatives depending on the desired nuance. Remember to reserve "palpable distinction" for scenarios where you want to emphasize the readily perceptible nature of the difference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perceptible distinction

Highlights the fact that the distinction is noticeable to the senses.

tangible contrast

Similar to "palpable", but focuses on the concrete nature of the difference.

obvious difference

Emphasizes the ease with which the difference can be observed.

clear differentiation

Focuses on the act of distinguishing between two things.

marked contrast

Highlights the degree to which the items differ.

noticeable divergence

Suggests a separation or deviation that is easily seen.

evident disparity

Points out an inequality or difference that is plain to see.

distinct variation

Emphasizes that the changes are clear and easy to perceive.

striking dissimilarity

Indicates a notable lack of resemblance.

pronounced difference

Highlights that the difference is significant and easily recognized.

FAQs

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

You can use "palpable distinction" to highlight a clear and easily perceived difference between two or more things. For example, "There is a palpable distinction between the two candidates' approaches to the problem".

What does "palpable distinction" mean?

It refers to a difference that is so obvious it can be easily perceived or felt. The word 'palpable' suggests that something is so evident it's almost tangible.

What are some alternatives to "palpable distinction"?

Alternatives include "obvious difference", "clear differentiation", or "marked contrast". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "palpable distinction" formal or informal?

"Palpable distinction" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, such as academic papers, news articles, and professional reports. It is generally not used in informal conversation.