adjective

distinct

/dɪˈstɪŋkt/ · say it: dis·TINGKT

clearly separate and different

In Describing & Comparing

In more detail

1. (adjective) clearly different or separate from others

2. (adjective) clear and easy to notice or recognize

Examples

1. Each language has its own distinct features that make it unique.
2. There is a distinct smell of smoke in the room.

How to use distinct

Distinct emphasizes clear separation or differentiation from other things, while also implying that something is easily perceptible or unmistakable. It is used in both formal and academic contexts when precision is needed. Similar to 'clear' or 'obvious' but with stronger emphasis on separation or difference.

Common phrases

a distinct advantage
a distinct impression
a distinct possibility
two distinct groups
the distinct sound

Synonyms

different · separate · clear · obvious · recognizable

Opposites

similar · blurred · unclear

Word family

distinctly (adverb) · distinction (noun) · distinguish (verb) · distinctive (adjective)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse 'distinct' with 'distinctive'; distinct means clearly different or separate, while distinctive means characteristic or having special qualities that make something unique.

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