distinct

adjective

di-ˈstiŋ(k)t How to pronounce distinct (audio)
Definition of distinctnext
1
as in different
being not of the same kind two distinct approaches to the same problem

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in unmistakable
not subject to misinterpretation or more than one interpretation a person with a distinct Scottish accent

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in specific
of a particular or exact sort I left distinct instructions that my books were not to be touched

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4
as in distinctive
serving to identify as belonging to an individual or group one of the distinct traits of a preliterate society

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective distinct contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of distinct are apparent, clear, evident, manifest, obvious, patent, and plain. While all these words mean "readily perceived or apprehended," distinct implies such sharpness of outline or definition that no unusual effort to see or hear or comprehend is required.

a distinct refusal

How do apparent and evident relate to one another, in the sense of distinct?

Apparent is very close to evident except that it may imply more conscious exercise of inference.

for no apparent reason

When is clear a more appropriate choice than distinct?

The synonyms clear and distinct are sometimes interchangeable, but clear implies an absence of anything that confuses the mind or obscures the pattern.

a clear explanation

When would evident be a good substitute for distinct?

In some situations, the words evident and distinct are roughly equivalent. However, evident implies presence of visible signs that lead one to a definite conclusion.

an evident fondness for sweets

When is it sensible to use manifest instead of distinct?

The words manifest and distinct can be used in similar contexts, but manifest implies an external display so evident that little or no inference is required.

manifest hostility

In what contexts can obvious take the place of distinct?

The words obvious and distinct are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, obvious implies such ease in discovering that it often suggests conspicuousness or little need for perspicacity in the observer.

the obvious solution

When could patent be used to replace distinct?

The meanings of patent and distinct largely overlap; however, patent applies to a cause, effect, or significant feature that is clear and unmistakable once attention has been directed to it.

patent defects

Where would plain be a reasonable alternative to distinct?

While in some cases nearly identical to distinct, plain suggests lack of intricacy, complexity, or elaboration.

her feelings about him are plain

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of distinct Along with the stylish modern townhomes, it is now packed with architecturally distinct apartment buildings, many built in the past five years by mortgage mogul Dan Gilbert's Bedrock real estate firm. —Jc Reindl, Freep.com, 11 July 2025 Among the graffiti was a drawing of a crying woman with a distinct Flavian period hairstyle, as well as the Greek alphabet. —Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2025 Linkin Park manages to push three distinct projects north on the same chart at the same time, as consumption of the Grammy-winning act’s catalog continues to grow. —Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 5 July 2025 After 29 months, six distinct legs, and 130 concerts across practically every corner of Europe and North America, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band finally wrapped up their world tour Thursday evening at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in Milan, Italy. —Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 4 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for distinct
Recent Examples of Synonyms for distinct
  1. different
  2. unmistakable
  3. specific
  4. distinctive
  5. diverse
  6. obvious
  7. special
  8. characteristic
Adjective
  • And in a different carousel of photos, which Justin shared on Friday, the singer once again cozied up to his wife, wrapping his arms around her in what appeared to be candid shots.
    — Bailey Richards, People.com, 27 July 2025
  • The Enquirer tried to contact ICE spokespeople via two different emails, separately contacted the Detroit field office, and requested any reports related to the alleged prank.
    — Victoria Moorwood, The Enquirer, 27 July 2025
Definition of different
Adjective
  • The public display hit televisions and phone screens across the country and was an unmistakable signal that the Trump administration was not done flexing its political muscle in California.
    — Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 19 July 2025
  • Dignity Through Every Stage Of Life The shift in conversation is unmistakable.
    — Karen Fonseth, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025
Definition of unmistakable
Adjective
  • For the modern update, Nintendo has tweaked the design slightly, incorporating controls specific to the Switch 2–namely the Home, screen capture, and C buttons—at the top of the pad, and added a tiny new ZL button on the left-hand shoulder.
    — Matt Kamen, Wired News, 20 July 2025
  • But Zeldin faces a major hurdle in accomplishing this feat: The existing PFAS standards are backed by the best currently available scientific evidence linking these specific chemicals to a range of adverse health effects.
    — David Michaels, The Atlantic, 20 July 2025
Definition of specific
Adjective
  • Meeting space, which is also popular for weddings, is another distinctive amenity.
    — Paul Brady, Travel + Leisure, 19 July 2025
  • The country has a low cost of living, a low crime rate and distinctive cuisine.
    — William P. Barrett, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025
Definition of distinctive
Adjective
  • The Iranian diaspora is extraordinarily diverse, and political and generational outlooks often transcend religious lines.
    — Dan Bilefsky, HollywoodReporter, 25 July 2025
  • But with over 200 wineries, the Old North State is steadily transforming into one of the country’s most exciting and diverse wine states.
    — Claire Volkman, Travel + Leisure, 25 July 2025
Definition of diverse
Adjective
  • And then there are the descriptions of the additional terms, which may not be obvious.
    — Erik Sherman, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • But a sharp turn straight into country seems like far too obvious a path for a singer-songwriter who has quietly done her own thing.
    — Julyssa Lopez, Rolling Stone, 14 July 2025
Definition of obvious
Adjective
  • The concert featured a special screening at the Winnetu Resort on Martha’s Vineyard, with the Cape Code orchestra playing along to the movie score and even a surprise visit by actor Richard Dreyfuss.
    — Jeanette Hurt, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
  • But that Berger has this moment is special for myriad reasons.
    — Megan Feringa, New York Times, 20 July 2025
Definition of special
Adjective
  • One unnamed feature on the intro sticks out though, complementing Tyler’s characteristic moxie with seasoned, head-of-state bravado.
    — Olivier Lafontant, Pitchfork, 21 July 2025
  • As is characteristic of SummerFest, there will be some unexpected collaborations and surprises, including a dance-and-violin performance and a concert featuring an onstage chef.
    — Beth Wood, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 July 2025
Definition of characteristic

Browse Nearby Words

distills
distinct
distinction
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Cite this Entry

“Distinct.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/distinct. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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