Synonyms for

Distinction

Verb / dɪˈstɪŋkʃʌn / Another word for distinction — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Distinction means a difference or contrast between similar things.

Synonyms & similar words

preeminence note differentiation eminence difference contrast variation discrepancy divergence disparity variation variation variation dissimilarity diversity variance unlikeness uniqueness individuality peculiarity quality excellence eminence preeminence

Synonyms by register

Formal

difference discrepancy divergence variation

Informal

difference contrast split

Literary

chasm divide rift

Antonyms

sameness similarity likeness uniformity identity equivalence

Common collocations

  • clear distinction
  • fine distinction
  • make a distinction
  • no distinction
  • subtle distinction
  • draw a distinction
  • between the two
  • important distinction

Word family

noun distinction
verb distinguish
adjective distinct
adverb distinctly

Usage note

Distinction often refers to a noticeable difference or a quality that sets something apart. It can also mean honor or excellence.

Example sentences

  1. The distinction between a donkey and a horse is that donkeys have longer ears.
  2. There is a clear distinction between right and wrong.
  3. Sarah's artwork has a distinction that sets it apart from others.
  4. The distinction in salary between a doctor and a teacher is quite significant.
  5. The distinction of being the first woman to climb Mount Everest goes to Junko Tabei.

Quotes

  • The distinction between the past, present, and future is only a stubbornly persistent illusion. - Albert Einstein
  • A person who has not made his great contribution to science before the age of thirty will never do so. - Albert Einstein
  • The distinction between freedom and liberty is not accurately known; naturalists have never been able to find a living specimen of either. - Ambrose Bierce

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