Understanding ‘Distinction’: Elevate Your Vocabulary for the SAT
Learn the meaning, usage, and importance of the word ‘distinction’ for the SAT. This video covers its definition, synonyms, antonyms, and common usage errors to help you excel in your vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.
Imagine you’re at a fancy restaurant, and the waiter approaches your table. He greets you by name and remembers your favorite dish from your last visit.
That level of service sets this restaurant apart from others. That’s distinction in action.
Word type:
Distinction is a noun.
Meaning: Distinction refers to excellence that sets someone or something apart from others.
It can also mean a difference or contrast between things, or the recognition of achievement.
Word history:
The word distinction comes from the Latin word distinctio, meaning separation or difference. It entered the English language in the fourteenth century, originally used to denote the action of distinguishing or differentiating between things.
Synonyms: Some synonyms for distinction include excellence, eminence, renown, prestige, and merit.
Antonyms:
Antonyms of distinction include mediocrity, ordinariness, and obscurity.
Examples use in sentences: The professor was awarded a medal for his distinction in the field of quantum physics.
There is a clear distinction between the policies of the two political parties. Sarah graduated with distinction, earning top honors in her class.
Common errors in use: One common error is confusing distinction with its adjective form, distinctive.
While distinction refers to the quality of being distinguished, distinctive means having a special quality or characteristic that sets something apart.
For example, you would say The artist’s work is of great distinction, not The artist’s work is of great distinctive.
Understanding and using the word distinction correctly can elevate your vocabulary and writing style.
On the SAT, you might encounter this word in reading comprehension passages or vocabulary questions.
Remember, distinction can refer to excellence, a difference between things, or recognition of achievement.
By mastering words like distinction, you’re setting yourself apart and demonstrating your own academic distinction.
