noun

distinction

distinction, difference, excellence, honor

There's a clear distinction between the two concepts.

There's a clear distinction between the two concepts.

She is a writer of great distinction.

She is a writer of great distinction.

He passed his exams with distinction.

He passed his exams with distinction.

a distinction between ((sth.)) and ((sth.)) a difference between two things There is a distinction between knowing and understanding.

with distinction with great excellence or a high grade She graduated with distinction.

Synonyms: difference, contrast, excellence, honor; Antonyms: similarity, mediocrity

From Latin 'distinguere' (to distinguish), from 'dis-' (apart) and 'stinguere' (to prick, mark). The original sense is 'to mark apart'.

Think of making a 'distinct' mark to separate things. This mark can also signify excellence, like a badge of honor.

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