sharp distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sharp distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a clear, distinct difference between two things. For example, "The sharp distinction between the two teams made it easy to identify who was who."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Descartes made a sharp distinction between matter and mind.

Stanford University

Another sharp distinction is on the issue of capital punishment.

The New York Times

I no longer maintain a sharp distinction between the two styles.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There's a sharp distinction between this condition and this condition over here.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In the interview with Harwood, Perry drew a sharp distinction between himself and Romney.

The Washington Post

This sharp distinction has driven much of astronomers' thinking about planet formation.

MIT Technology Review

Professor Hanke draws a sharp distinction between dollarisation and monetary union.

The Guardian - Business

There is, therefore, no reason for a sharp distinction between occupied and empty space.

Britannica

Ryan, in contrast, drew a sharp distinction between terrorist radicals and Muslims at-large.

The Washington Post

But, over time, he'd stopped drawing a sharp distinction between the various levels of punishment.

The New Yorker

A sharp distinction is drawn between city administration and suburban administration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sharp distinction" to clearly articulate key differences when comparing concepts or ideas. This phrase adds precision and emphasis to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "sharp distinction" when the difference is subtle or nuanced. Reserve it for scenarios where the contrast is obvious and significant to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sharp distinction" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to describe a clear and easily noticeable difference between two or more concepts, objects, or ideas. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

23%

Encyclopedias

18%

Less common in

Science

17%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sharp distinction" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that highlights a clear and noticeable difference between two or more things. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. As analyzed, it functions as a noun phrase with a neutral register, making it suitable for academic, news, and even informal communications. While alternatives like "clear difference" or "marked contrast" exist, "sharp distinction" specifically emphasizes the intensity of the contrast. When using this phrase, ensure that the difference you are describing is, in fact, significant and easily perceivable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pronounced difference

Similar to "clear difference" but emphasizes the degree to which things differ.

clear difference

Replaces "sharp distinction" with a more general term for difference.

marked contrast

Substitutes "distinction" with "contrast", emphasizing the opposition between two things.

unequivocal differentiation

Focuses on the process of distinguishing and making something different without any doubt.

distinct boundary

Replaces "distinction" with "boundary", focusing on the dividing line between two things.

noticeable demarcation

Highlights the act of setting or marking limits or boundaries.

evident separation

Uses "separation" instead of "distinction", highlighting the act of keeping things apart.

decisive divergence

Emphasizes the act of moving in different directions from a central point.

obvious dissimilarity

Emphasizes the lack of similarity instead of focusing on the distinction itself.

major disparity

Indicates a significant difference or inequality between two things.

FAQs

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

Use "sharp distinction" to highlight a clear and easily noticeable difference between two or more things. For example, "There is a "sharp distinction" between ionic and covalent bonds."

What are some alternatives to "sharp distinction"?

Alternatives include "clear difference", "marked contrast", or "distinct boundary", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "sharp distinction" and "clear distinction"?

While similar, "sharp distinction" suggests a more pronounced and easily perceivable difference than "clear distinction", emphasizing the contrast's intensity.

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

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize a notable and unmistakable difference. Avoid using it if the difference is minimal or subjective, favoring terms like "subtle difference" instead.