distinct

adjective

dis·tinct | \ di-ˈstiŋ(k)t

Definition of distinct

1 : distinguishable to the eye or mind as being discrete (see discrete sense 1) or not the same : separate a distinct cultural group teaching as distinct from research

2 : presenting a clear unmistakable impression a neat distinct handwriting

3 archaic : notably decorated

4a : notable a distinct contribution to scholarship

b : readily and unmistakably apprehended (see apprehend sense 2a) a distinct possibility of snow a distinct British accent the distinct odor of sulfur

Other Words from distinct Synonyms & Antonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Phrases Containing distinct Learn More About distinct

Other Words from distinct

distinctly \ di-ˈstiŋ(k)-tlē

, -ˈstiŋ-klē \ adverb

distinctness \ di-ˈstiŋ(k)t-nəs

, -ˈstiŋk-nəs \ noun

Choose the Right Synonym for distinct

distinct, separate, discrete mean not being each and every one the same. distinct indicates that something is distinguished by the mind or eye as being apart or different from others. two distinct versions separate often stresses lack of connection or a difference in identity between two things. separate rooms discrete strongly emphasizes individuality and lack of connection. broke the job down into discrete stages

synonyms see in addition evident

Examples of distinct in a Sentence

There are three distinct categories. Each herb has its own distinct flavor. The phrase has three distinct meanings. There was the distinct smell of something burning. The outline became less and less distinct as the light faded. We had the distinct impression that they were lying. See More

Recent Examples on the Web The two subvariants are actually quite distinct from each other, almost as evolutionarily divergent as Alpha was from Delta. — Sarah Zhang, The Atlantic, 14 Apr. 2022 Entrepreneurial discovery learning is distinct from traditional learning. — Barbara Kurshan, Forbes, 12 Apr. 2022 But the undeveloped landscape of his childhood became the rich ground that nourished an understanding that was distinct from that of his contemporaries. — Benjamin Ehrlich, Scientific American, 21 Mar. 2022 Genuine OAuth or payment windows are in fact separate browser instances that are distinct from the primary page. — Dan Goodin, Ars Technica, 21 Mar. 2022 Antibodies made to fight off SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) are distinct from those produced by vaccines, so testing for these proteins can help determine if someone was previously infected, even unknowingly. — Jamie Ducharme, Time, 26 Apr. 2022 This is because, with additive, each part is distinct. — Michael Molitch-hou, Forbes, 25 Apr. 2022 As Pogue emphasizes, this strand of the new right is somewhat distinct from the more populist and electorally consequential MAGA movement. — Samuel Goldman, The Week, 22 Apr. 2022 There are multiple reasons why the rivalry is distinct. — Don Norcross, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Apr. 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'distinct.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.