distinction

A difference between things that helps you see them as separate.

• The distinction is important.
• She explained the distinction between needs and wants.
• These distinctions are often difficult to see.

How to use it: distinction between A and B (There is a clear distinction between a wish and a plan.)

Similar words: difference

Opposites: similarity

Common phrases: clear distinction, subtle distinction, draw a distinction, class distinction

The act of recognizing or treating things as different from each other.

• The rules apply without distinction.
• We make no distinction between new and returning customers.
• A careful distinction between fact and opinion is necessary.

How to use it: make a distinction between A and B (We make a distinction between accidents and deliberate damage.); without distinction of something (Everyone may apply without distinction of age.)

Similar words: differentiation, discrimination

Common phrases: make a distinction, without distinction, distinction between groups

A high standard of achievement that earns people's respect and attention.

• She completed the course with distinction.
• He became a writer of great distinction.
• Few musicians have achieved such distinction.

How to use it: with distinction (She served her community with distinction.); of distinction (He was a scientist of distinction.)

Similar words: excellence, eminence

Common phrases: with distinction, great distinction, artist of distinction