distinct

adjective

dis·​tinct di-ˈstiŋ(k)t 

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

4

a

: 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

distinctly

di-ˈstiŋ(k)-tlē 

-ˈstiŋ-klē

adverb

distinctness

di-ˈstiŋ(k)t-nəs 

-ˈstiŋk-nəs

noun

Synonyms

• different
• disparate
• dissimilar
• distant
• distinctive
• distinguishable
• diverse
• nonidentical
• other
• unalike
• unlike

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

And yet, Wilders may not be able to make much of his current gains, given the complexity of building a government with centrist support, or the distinct possibility that a ruling coalition with him at the helm is still a non-starter for many would-be allies. —Ishaan Tharoor, Washington Post, 27 Nov. 2023

Researchers found that Ryan Larkin’s brain showed a distinct pattern of damage unique to people exposed to blast waves. —Dave Philipps, New York Times, 26 Nov. 2023

Their unique design and estate-sale vibe provide a distinct and appealing decorative element, perfect for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home. —Poppy Morgan, Rolling Stone, 24 Nov. 2023

For Arce, incorporating seasonal elements important to native communities and their distinct traditions into Thanksgiving can help honor their survival and resilience. —Cara Tabachnick, CBS News, 23 Nov. 2023

The move will make the two companies more distinct, East Buy said. —WSJ, 22 Nov. 2023

The Indigo Disk takes places in the Blueberry Academy’s secure, underwater campus, which houses four distinct biomes. —Jordan Moreau, Variety, 21 Nov. 2023

The duo combined for 34 points, 15 rebounds and seven blocks, taking advantage of a distinct size advantage on offense and defense. —John W. Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Nov. 2023

Mia, for example, comes with a star sticker on the forehead and Roberta with her distinct cherry-red locks. —Jessica Roiz, Billboard, 14 Nov. 2023

See More

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin distinctus, from past participle of distinguere — see distinguish

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing distinct

• as distinct from

• as distinct from

Kids Definition

distinct

adjective

dis·​tinct dis-ˈtiŋ(k)t 

1

: real and different from each other

five distinct varieties

pears as distinct from apples

2

: clearly seen, heard, or understood : plain, unmistakable

speaks with a distinct accent

a distinct possibility

3

: notable

made a distinct contribution to science

distinctly adverb

distinctness noun