Synonyms of distinctive

distinctive

adjective

di-ˈstiŋ(k)-tiv 

1

as in different

being not of the same kind

she seems to alternate between two distinctive hairstyles

Synonyms & Similar Words

• different
• diverse
• distinct
• distinguishable
• varied
• other
• dissimilar
• disparate
• unlike
• differentiable
• distant
• various
• several
• divergent
• unalike
• nonidentical
• mixed
• variant
• miscellaneous
• alternative
• sundry
• individual
• alternate
• particular
• discriminable
• single
• unequal
• disproportionate
• peculiar
• divers

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• similar
• same
• identical
• like
• parallel
• indistinguishable
• kindred
• equal
• kin
• alike
• equivalent
• comparable
• related
• analogous
• tantamount
• uniform
• homogeneous
• selfsame
• homologous
• akin
• homogenous
• homological

2

as in distinct

serving to identify as belonging to an individual or group

the distinctive odor of a barnyard

Synonyms & Similar Words

• distinct
• characteristic
• distinguishing
• typical
• unmistakable
• peculiar
• identifying
• individual
• diagnostic
• classic
• symptomatic
• proper
• discriminating
• diagnostical
• idiosyncratic
• identifiable
• usual
• generic
• common
• pronounced
• specific
• special
• general
• particular
• normal
• regular
• paradigmatic
• archetypal
• model
• especial
• archetypical

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• atypical
• uncharacteristic
• untypical
• nontypical

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

Recent Examples of distinctive

Feminist in tone and visually distinctive, the story unfolds in Belle Époque Paris through the eyes of the world’s first influencer. —Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 1 Oct. 2025

Rosé’s distinctive voice lent a touch of vulnerability to the group’s slick choreography. —Nicole Fell, HollywoodReporter, 1 Oct. 2025

Now the Jeserich Building, also known as the Tower building — a distinctive piece of 1888 Kansas City architecture, with its southwest Queen Ann turret rooms and bow windows — will be coming down, its owners confirmed Tuesday. —Chris Higgins, Kansas City Star, 30 Sep. 2025

Known for capturing powerful imagery inspired by her Bronx upbringing and Dominican heritage, her distinctive storytelling style has shaped visuals for cultural icons like Solange Knowles, Kendrick Lamar and more. —Essence, 30 Sep. 2025