reasonable distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

"reasonable distinction" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to a distinction made between two or more things based on valid, logical reasoning. For example, "He drew a reasonable distinction between his responsibilities at work and his responsibilities at home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

This is a reasonable distinction, but purists have extended it with a vengeance.

The Guardian - Books

That may sound like a reasonable distinction, but it ignores an inflated potential for politically motivated decision-making.

The New York Times

Unlike most critics' groups and the Golden Globes, the Academy divides its screenplay prizes between adapted and original fare – an entirely reasonable distinction, though it results most years in uneven distribution of heat between the categories.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It's that the only way to keep the exceptions narrow is to start with a strong right, and let the courts define its boundaries through "reasonable distinction-making".

The New York Times

Collins, for example, claims that the distinction between reasonable propositions and "things above, and things contrary to reason" is the distinction that theologians use on behalf of mysteries and theological contradictions against those who say that they can only believe what they understand.

SEP

His career as a manager held out the entirely reasonable hope of similar distinction.

The Guardian - Sport

It is therefore reasonable to drop the distinction in notation and simply write for both of these product operations.

Complex Analysis and its Synergies

And they suggest that because same-sex couples can't procreate, it's reasonable to leave the distinction of being "married" solely to opposite-sex couples.

Huffington Post

Acknowledging that businesses can use such information in advertising and marketing without crossing the line, the legislation seeks to draw a distinction between reasonable uses of certain data and unreasonable invasions of privacy.

Huffington Post

Try to make the distinction between reasonable noise and annoying noise.

WikiHow

According to Ford, the urge to condemn discrimination in all its forms — a legacy of the civil rights movement — has led people on the left and the right to reject "reasonable, prudent and innocent distinctions".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reasonable distinction" when you want to emphasize the logic and rationale behind differentiating between two or more things. Avoid using it when the distinction is purely subjective or arbitrary.

Common error

Avoid using "reasonable distinction" when the difference is trivial or self-evident. The distinction should carry some weight or importance to warrant the description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reasonable distinction" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "reasonable" modifies the noun "distinction". It describes a differentiation that is logically sound and justifiable. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reasonable distinction" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a difference between two or more things that is logical, justifiable, and based on sound reasoning. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in various contexts. It is frequently used in news, science, and encyclopedic writing to legitimize actions or viewpoints based on clearly articulated differences. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the basis for the distinction is clear and well-supported, avoiding overuse in trivial cases. Alternatives such as "justifiable differentiation" or "valid demarcation" can be used to add nuance to your writing. In conclusion, understanding and applying "reasonable distinction" effectively enhances clarity and persuasiveness in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sensible differentiation

Highlights the practicality and common sense behind making a difference.

legitimate distinction

Emphasizes the recognition and acceptance of the difference under established rules or norms.

justifiable differentiation

Emphasizes the ethical or legal justification for making a difference.

logical separation

Stresses the clear, reasoned basis for drawing a line between items.

valid demarcation

Focuses on the clarity and correctness of the boundary being drawn.

well-founded division

Suggests a firm and established reason for the splitting.

supportable delineation

Focuses on the ability to provide evidence or reasons for drawing a specific boundary.

rational discrimination

Implies a considered and thoughtful basis for treating things differently.

sound categorization

Focuses on the accuracy and reliability of placing things into different groups.

defensible contrast

Highlights the ability to argue for and support the difference being pointed out.

FAQs

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

You can use "reasonable distinction" to highlight a clear and logical difference between two concepts. For example, "The judge drew a reasonable distinction between intent and negligence."

What can I say instead of "reasonable distinction"?

You can use alternatives like "valid demarcation", "justifiable differentiation", or "sensible differentiation" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "reasonable distinction" or "rational distinction"?

Both "reasonable distinction" and "rational distinction" are correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Reasonable" implies fairness and common sense, while "rational" emphasizes logic and reasoning. The better choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "reasonable distinction" and "subtle difference"?

A "reasonable distinction" is based on logic and can be clearly explained, while a "subtle difference" is a fine or delicate distinction that may not be immediately obvious. The terms are not interchangeable.