Dictionary
distinction
distinction
noun dis·tinc·tion \di-ˈstiŋ(k)-shən\
: a difference that you can see, hear, smell, feel, etc. : a noticeable difference between things or people
: the separation of people or things into different groups
: importance, excellence, or achievement
Full Definition of DISTINCTION
2
: the distinguishing of a difference <without distinction as to race, sex, or religion>; also : the difference distinguished <the distinction between imply and infer>
3
: something that distinguishes <regional distinctions>
4
: the quality or state of being distinguishable <no distinction of facial features in the twins>
5
a : the quality or state of being distinguished or worthy <a politician of some distinction> b : special honor or recognition <took a law degree with distinction> <won many distinctions> c : an accomplishment that sets one apart <the distinction of being the oldest to win the title>
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Examples of DISTINCTION
- There are no obvious distinctions between the two designs.
- She made a distinction between the words “less” and “fewer.”
- He was raised in a small town of no great distinction.
- Her talents gave distinction to the work.
First Known Use of DISTINCTION
13th century
Related to DISTINCTION
- Synonyms
- choiceness, excellence, excellency, first-rateness, greatness, perfection, preeminence, primeness, superbness, superiority, supremacy
- Antonyms
- deficiency, demerit, disvalue
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