significant distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significant distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when highlighting an important difference between two or more subjects or concepts. Example: "There is a significant distinction between the two theories that must be addressed in our discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

That, he said, was a significant distinction.

The New York Times

That, of course, is a significant distinction.

The New York Times - Arts

They also have a significant distinction: they always back the winner.

The New Yorker

It was not unions that voted for Ed Miliband, but affiliated union members, a significant distinction.

The Guardian

(It is a significant distinction: Wanamaker himself always said that he was a merchant, not a capitalist).

The New Yorker

This detail illuminates a significant distinction between "Lady Bird" and a wide range of notable independent films.

The New Yorker

But the most significant distinction may be the participation of New Yorkers.

The New York Times - Arts

A significant distinction between the London cab and its American counterpart is the use of a diesel power plant.

The New York Times

It's a subtle but significant distinction and it has unmistakable political overtones, especially during this time of rising class resentment.

The New York Times - Sports

There's no Slough of Despond, though Harold does become quite despondent in Stroud; and there's a significant distinction in that Joyce's pilgrim doesn't believe in God.

The Guardian - Books

But because Samsung is a handset maker, its new system will have one significant distinction from other security products for Android.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "significant distinction", ensure you clearly articulate both elements being compared and the specific difference between them to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "significant distinction" when the difference is trivial or inconsequential. Ensure the difference genuinely matters in the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant distinction" functions as a noun phrase, where "significant" modifies the noun "distinction". According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, further solidifying its role as a standard English expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "significant distinction" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to emphasize important differences. Ludwig confirms its validity for written English. It is commonly found in news, media, and scientific contexts, indicating a versatile application across various registers. Remember to clearly define what you're comparing when using this phrase to maximize clarity. While very common, avoid using it to describe small, trivial distinctions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notable difference

Emphasizes the difference in a way that is easily observed or worthy of attention.

important contrast

Highlights the importance of the difference between two things.

marked difference

Focuses on how clear and easily recognizable the difference is.

substantial contrast

Indicates the difference is considerable in amount or degree.

major differentiation

Emphasizes a key separation or distinction.

key difference

Highlights the crucial or essential difference.

pronounced difference

Stresses that the difference is very noticeable or obvious.

clear distinction

Indicates that the difference is easy to perceive and understand.

noticeable divergence

Suggests a deviation or separation that is readily apparent.

relevant distinction

Highlights that the difference is pertinent and consequential.

FAQs

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

You can use "significant distinction" to highlight an important difference between two or more things. For example: "There is a significant distinction between these two approaches."

What are some alternatives to "significant distinction"?

Some alternatives to "significant distinction" include "notable difference", "important contrast", or "marked difference".

Is there a difference between "significant distinction" and "subtle difference"?

Yes, "significant distinction" implies a noticeable and important difference, while "subtle difference" refers to a difference that is not immediately obvious or easily perceived.

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

It's appropriate to use "significant distinction" when you want to emphasize that a particular difference is important or has a noteworthy impact on the subject being discussed.