the singular distinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the singular distinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a unique or notable difference or characteristic that sets something apart from others. Example: "The singular distinction of her artwork lies in its ability to evoke deep emotions in the viewer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

I have the singular distinction of being the brother-in-law to both Walter Hopps and Irving Blum.

The New York Times

First there is the broad category of pride: the singular distinction of loving, and being loved by, an American soldier.

The New York Times

In this sense, the Ambassador holds the singular distinction of being one of the few vehicles whose mention evokes power, elegance and something pleasingly retro, even as its manifestation, in the form of taxis and government vehicles in Kolkata and Delhi, often borders on disrepair.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

He hopes that adding more conspicuous references to his celebrity might create what marketers call a "purple cow" — that singular distinction that gets people talking.

The New York Times

He left office a few months after the terrorist attacks, having achieved a singular distinction: no other modern mayor of New York had departed at the crest of his popularity.

The New York Times

Hans Haacke's singular distinction is of the hard won, genuine kind, an eminent isolation shared in the twentieth century perhaps only by John Heartfield and Piero Manzoni (two figures of greatest importance for his own formation).

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Prosecutor Jennifer Kerkhoff owns a singular distinction: She's the only Assistant United States Attorney to have a punk album named for her Now That's What I Call Kerkhophony V.1.

Vice

The event is Princeton's ROTC commissioning ceremony, and the students whom it honors exemplify the University's ideals of engagement and service with singular distinction.

Princeton University

J. R. and Stump were retired housemates and congenial bedfellows in Houston who shared a singular distinction: each won best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

The New York Times - Sports

For example, before Microsoft was a household name, Bill Gates had a singular distinction in his network his mother, Mary Gates, who sat on the board of United Way with John Akers, a high-level IBM executive.

Harvard Business Review

A NEW book by Sybille Bedford, now aged 94 and a writer of singular distinction, over ten years after her last one is an unusual joy.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing this phrase, ensure that the distinction you're pointing out is genuinely unique and significant within the context.

Common error

Avoid using "the singular distinction" when the characteristic isn't truly unique, as this diminishes the phrase's impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the singular distinction" functions as a noun phrase, often serving to highlight a specific, unique quality or characteristic that sets something apart. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's generally used correctly in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

22%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the singular distinction" is a phrase used to highlight a unique or notable difference. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. While its frequency is relatively rare, its use is appropriate in formal contexts, particularly in news media and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the characteristic you are highlighting is genuinely unique to maintain its impact. Alternatives such as "unique attribute" or ""defining characteristic"" can be employed for similar effect. In essence, "the singular distinction" adds emphasis when pinpointing what sets something uniquely apart.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the defining characteristic

Focuses on the most important and unique trait.

the distinctive feature

Emphasizes a particular characteristic that sets something apart.

the notable difference

Focuses on a difference that is worthy of attention.

the exceptional quality

Highlights a quality that is above the ordinary.

the special characteristic

Points out a characteristic that is noteworthy.

the unique attribute

Focuses on a specific, unique characteristic.

the uncommon feature

Emphasizes a feature that is not generally seen.

the unparalleled aspect

Stresses that there is nothing else like this aspect.

the one-of-a-kind trait

Highlights the uniqueness of a specific trait.

the exclusive aspect

Highlights the aspect of the subject that can't be found elsewhere.

FAQs

How can I use "the singular distinction" in a sentence?

Use "the singular distinction" to emphasize a notable difference or characteristic that sets something apart. For example: "The "defining characteristic" of her work is its innovative approach to the subject matter."

What are some alternatives to "the singular distinction"?

You can use alternatives like "unique attribute", "exceptional quality", or "distinctive feature" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "the singular distinction"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize a characteristic that is genuinely unique and noteworthy. Avoid using it for common or minor differences.

What is the difference between "the singular distinction" and "notable difference"?

"The singular distinction" implies a higher degree of uniqueness and importance than "notable difference", which simply indicates something worthy of attention. The former is stronger and should be reserved for truly exceptional cases.