Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective distinctive contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of distinctive are characteristic, individual, and peculiar. While all these words mean "indicating a special quality or identity," distinctive indicates qualities distinguishing and uncommon and often superior or praiseworthy.

a distinctive aura of grace and elegance

When could characteristic be used to replace distinctive?

The meanings of characteristic and distinctive largely overlap; however, characteristic applies to something that distinguishes or identifies a person or thing or class.

responded with her characteristic wit

When might individual be a better fit than distinctive?

The words individual and distinctive are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, individual stresses qualities that distinguish one from all other members of the same kind or class.

a highly individual writing style

When is it sensible to use peculiar instead of distinctive?

While in some cases nearly identical to distinctive, peculiar applies to qualities possessed only by a particular individual or class or kind and stresses rarity or uniqueness.

an eccentricity that is peculiar to the British

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 distinctive In general, the only ways to date sediments are if there’s a layer of volcanic ash in them, or by distinctive fossils in the sediments. Howard Lee, ArsTechnica, 11 Aug. 2025 Lily, as played by Sophia Hammons, has a distinctive snappish downbeat British-princess personality; some of it is her accent, some of it her entitled ‘tude. Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 5 Aug. 2025 Quantum Computing’s Emerging Capabilities and Threats Quantum computing works by harnessing the distinctive properties of atoms and subatomic particles. Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025 The durable Rogers — who has a distinctive submarine delivery — has made 53 appearances this season with a 1.80 ERA, four walks and 38 strikeouts for the San Francisco Giants. David Brandt, Chicago Tribune, 31 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for distinctive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for distinctive
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
  • Each provider offers distinct benefits, from low introductory prices to high-speed fiber connections.
    Roxanne Downer, USA Today, 23 Aug. 2025
  • To Advance Redistricting Map Hurricane Erin 2025 Tracker: Satellite Images, Graphics Show Growing Storm's Path 11:18 AM EDT Erik and Lyle could get separate results As Erik and Lyle Menendez face separate parole hearings, their distinct approaches to rehabilitation may influence the outcomes.
    Hannah Parry Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 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
  • 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
Adjective
  • Speed: Choose a plan with enough download and upload speed for your typical use.
    Kara McGinley, USA Today, 19 Aug. 2025
  • David Raya came and collected a corner with typical calmness, using a quick throw to release Martin Odegaard into a four-on-four counter-attack.
    James McNicholas, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Distinctive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/distinctive. Accessed 26 Aug. 2025.

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