distinction

Meaning

1. (countable, uncountable) That which distinguishes; a single occurrence of a determining factor or feature, the fact of being divided; separation, discrimination.
2. (countable, uncountable) The act of distinguishing, discriminating; discrimination.
3. (countable, uncountable) A feature that causes someone or something to stand out from others of its type.
4. (countable, specifically, uncountable) A feature that causes someone or something to stand out from others of its type.

Synonyms

difference

discrimination

differentiation

eminence

excellence

renown

honour

superiority

brilliance

separation

fame

note

prominence

contrast

respect

classification

dignity

disparity

recognition

preeminence

division

regard

distinguish

exception

discrepancy

class

worth

discerning

veneration

separate

speciality

refinement

esteem

rank

partition

pre-eminence

divergence

glory

distinguishing

gap

mark

uniqueness

dissimilarity

display

declaration

discretion

caste

feature

favouritism

favoritism

Translations

distinction

distinción

Unterscheidung

Unterschied

distinzione

distinção

διάκριση

distinció

Auszeichnung

onderscheiding

diferenciación

discrimination

différence

différentiation

onderscheid

Pronounced as (IPA)

/dɪˈstɪŋkʃən/

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English: distinccioun

In summary

From Middle English distinccioun, from Old French distinction (attested from the 12th century), borrowed from Latin distinctiōnem, action noun of distinguō (“separate, distinguish”). Attested in English from the late 14th century.