distinction */*/*/

UK [dɪˈstɪŋkʃ(ə)n] / US noun
Word forms "distinction":
singular distinction plural distinctions

1) [countable] a difference between two things

In practice, these distinctions are often blurred (= not made very clear).

distinction between:

Do other countries have the same distinction between amateur and professional athletes that we do?

make/draw a distinction:

Medical literature does not always make a distinction between the two terms. education for girls and boys.

a clear/sharp distinction:

This would lead to a clear distinction between management and the workforce.

2) [uncountable] formal the excellent qualities, skills, or features that someone or something has

of (great) distinction:

We are fortunate that so many people of distinction and talent are present.

3) [countable/uncountable] British a very high mark in an examination

get/gain a distinction:

She got a distinction in her piano exam.

Kevin graduated with distinction in history and law.

4) [countable] British formal an honour given to someone who has achieved a very high standard in their work or who has helped many people

5) [singular] an unusual achievement or feature that makes someone or something different from other people or things

have/hold/gain the distinction of:

She holds the distinction of having been the first woman editor of the Harvard Law Review.

The country has gained the dubious distinction of being one of the world's most dangerous places for journalists.

•

with/without distinction — in a way that is recognized as being extremely good/bad

He fought with distinction in the First World War.

without distinction (of something) — used for saying that something affects or includes everyone

The aim is to guarantee the rights of all citizens without distinction of nationality, sex, education, or status.