DISTINCTION definition: a marking off or distinguishing as different. See examples of distinction used in a sentence. DISTINCTION definition: 1.

Understanding the Context

a difference between two similar things: 2. the quality of being excellent: 3. a mark given to…. Learn more.

Key Insights

The condition or fact of being dissimilar or distinct; difference: "the crucial distinction between education and indoctrination" (A. Bartlett Giamatti). See Synonyms at difference. (specifically) A feature that causes someone or something to stand out as being better; a mark of honour, rank, eminence or excellence; the quality of being distinguished. She had the distinction of meeting the Queen.

Final Thoughts

Distinction refers to the quality of being notably different or unique in comparison to something else. It is often a special honor, achievement, or characteristic that sets someone or something apart from others. It can also refer to a clear difference or contrast between similar things or people. a distinguishing quality or characteristic: It has the distinction of being the oldest house in the town. a distinguishing or treating with special honor, attention, or favor. The meaning of DISTINCTION is the act of perceiving someone or something as being not the same and often treating as separate or different : the distinguishing of a difference; also : the difference distinguished.

If you say that someone or something has the distinction of being something, you are drawing attention to the fact that they have the special quality of being that thing. Distinction is normally used to refer to good qualities, but can sometimes also be used to refer to bad qualities.