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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective distinct contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of distinct are apparent, clear, evident, manifest, obvious, patent, and plain. While all these words mean "readily perceived or apprehended," distinct implies such sharpness of outline or definition that no unusual effort to see or hear or comprehend is required.

a distinct refusal

How do apparent and evident relate to one another, in the sense of distinct?

Apparent is very close to evident except that it may imply more conscious exercise of inference.

for no apparent reason

When is clear a more appropriate choice than distinct?

The synonyms clear and distinct are sometimes interchangeable, but clear implies an absence of anything that confuses the mind or obscures the pattern.

a clear explanation

When would evident be a good substitute for distinct?

In some situations, the words evident and distinct are roughly equivalent. However, evident implies presence of visible signs that lead one to a definite conclusion.

an evident fondness for sweets

When is it sensible to use manifest instead of distinct?

The words manifest and distinct can be used in similar contexts, but manifest implies an external display so evident that little or no inference is required.

manifest hostility

In what contexts can obvious take the place of distinct?

The words obvious and distinct are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, obvious implies such ease in discovering that it often suggests conspicuousness or little need for perspicacity in the observer.

the obvious solution

When could patent be used to replace distinct?

The meanings of patent and distinct largely overlap; however, patent applies to a cause, effect, or significant feature that is clear and unmistakable once attention has been directed to it.

patent defects

Where would plain be a reasonable alternative to distinct?

While in some cases nearly identical to distinct, plain suggests lack of intricacy, complexity, or elaboration.

her feelings about him are plain

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of distinct The entrepreneur’s confidence is based, in part, on the belief that downtown’s west Broadway corridor is distinct from the B Street corridor. Jennifer Van Grove, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Aug. 2025 Another is that consciousness in other species might take distinct forms that would be unrecognizable to humans. Mariana Lenharo & Nature Magazine, Scientific American, 6 Aug. 2025 However, recent studies have shown genetic differences between the snakes found there and the ones identified in Mizoram, meaning geographical separation has led to distinct lineages, according to the study. Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 6 Aug. 2025 That said, there does appear to be two fairly distinct levels of candidacy: Democrats with genuine shots at winning versus those who face an uphill struggle to be taken seriously. Dan Walters, Mercury News, 6 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for distinct
Recent Examples of Synonyms for distinct
Adjective
  • There are always lively debates, with a great mix of perspectives from different parts of the world, and a nice cozy feel, coming right before the holidays.
    Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2025
  • Criminals can launch websites and online stores, close them quickly, and open new ones on different platforms.
    Margaret Buranen, USA Today, 20 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • The unmistakable pink building still features cliff diving, roaming mariachi performers, and lovingly over-the-top decor, but now the food isn’t too bad, either.
    John Wenzel, Denver Post, 13 Aug. 2025
  • This feels worth acknowledging because almost every home with them, no matter how expensive the litter box, shares that unmistakable aroma.
    Mikey O'Connell, HollywoodReporter, 13 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • However, there have been some signs of recovery, with a focus on specific sectors like technology and pharmaceuticals.
    Ritika Gupta, CNBC, 13 Aug. 2025
  • Many types of delusional disorders involve specific claims or contentions.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • The robber was seen in the surveillance footage wearing distinctive blue and white high-top shoes, the affidavit states.
    Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 Aug. 2025
  • The company had offered all EV rideshares in their distinctive bright blue Teslas and Kias for four years.
    David Matthews, New York Daily News, 11 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Stewart aims to breed horses for racing rather than selling, incorporating diverse bloodlines and contributing to the local economy.
    Olivia Evans, The Courier-Journal, 18 Aug. 2025
  • Having such a diverse array of colleges, universities and ongoing education that brings people into this city and invests in their growth.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Not all primary headaches have obvious explanations.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2025
  • The first and most obvious is the genuinely absurd three year wait for eight more episodes of a show that in no way should take that long to make.
    Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Lee will face Republican Ruth Bittner in the special election on Sept. 16.
    Alex Derosier, Twin Cities, 13 Aug. 2025
  • That report fueled demands for her ouster and a special election granting the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors the power to remove her by a four-fifths vote.
    Ryan Macasero, Mercury News, 13 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Structured with fresh acidity and length, the oak is well integrated, and the overall impression is of a balanced, delicious wine with the red fruit aromas that are characteristic of Trepat.
    Forbes.com, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025
  • During the last month of the course, students practice communicating effectively in a wide range of circumstances characteristic of a STEM career.
    Filomena Nunes, The Conversation, 12 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Distinct.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/distinct. Accessed 24 Aug. 2025.

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